BYD has launched the second-generation Seagull, the first model in its Ocean series to receive a full redesign, with prices starting at 65,900 yuan (about $9,300) for the entry version. The new small electric hatchback is offered in five trims, with official guide prices ranging from 65,900 to 99,900 yuan (about $14,100), according to Chinese outlet 电动邦 (EVbang). A so-called super trade-in price lowers the entry point to 62,900 yuan (about $8,900), with an additional 3,000 yuan (about $420) trade-in subsidy.
The original Seagull, launched in 2023, has sold more than 1.55 million units and set a global record for the fastest BEV (battery-electric) model to reach one million cumulative sales. The second generation aims to build on that popularity by adding more space, smarter assistance features and faster charging, while keeping the model's affordable positioning.
More space, more tech
The new Seagull measures 4,205 mm long, 1,810 mm wide and 1,570 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,650 mm, placing it at the top of its segment. BYD says the cabin now comfortably seats five adults, with improved legroom, headroom and hip room in the rear. Cargo capacity includes a 94-litre front trunk, a standard boot that holds two 24-inch and two 20-inch suitcases, and a maximum of 1,380 litres with the rear seats folded flat.
Inside, the car features a 15.6-inch central touchscreen running the DiLink 150 smart cockpit system, a 50W wireless phone charger, and front seats with heating, ventilation and massage for the driver. The cabin also includes more than 30 storage spaces, including a 1.62-litre hidden tissue box and 24 litres of under-seat storage.
The headline upgrade is the inclusion of the DiPilot 300 lidar-based driver assistance system, which supports urban NOA (city advanced driver assistance) and highway navigation assistance. BYD says the system can handle automatic parking in complex spaces, and offers a "double guarantee" for smart parking and urban navigation functions for first owners.
Fast charging and range
The second-generation Seagull is the smallest BYD model to feature the company's flash charging technology. Official claims say the battery can go from empty to full in about 9 minutes, or 5 minutes for a full charge in optimal conditions, with only 3 extra minutes needed at minus 30 degrees Celsius. BYD says it has built 12,165 flash charging stations nationwide, with a target of 20,000 by the end of the year.
Two CLTC range versions are offered: 320 km and 420 km. In WLTP terms, that roughly translates to an estimated 260-350 km, as CLTC figures are typically 15-20% more optimistic than the WLTP standard. The car's energy consumption is claimed to be as low as 9.0 kWh per 100 km, helped by a drag coefficient of 0.28.
The electric motor produces 95 kW (about 127 hp) and 130 Nm of torque, with a top speed of 150 km/h. The rear-wheel-drive layout uses a multi-link rear suspension, and the turning radius stays at 4.95 metres despite the larger body.
Safety equipment includes a standard sentinel mode, a blowout stability system that works between 60 and 140 km/h, and automatic emergency braking. The body uses a high-strength architecture with up to six airbags.
The second-generation Seagull is now available at BYD dealerships across China, with the company offering a range of launch benefits including free flash charging for 12 months on fast-charge versions and a free 7 kW home charger for eligible buyers.
