BYD Seagull is a brilliantly named electric supermini for China

19 Apr 2023

Fresh off the UK launch of the Seal and Dolphin, BYD has revealed the latest model in its ocean-themed range of cars: an ultra-cute and affordable electric supermini named the Seagull.

Now, this has been launched at the Shanghai motor show and is currently only intended for the Chinese market. But we’re highlighting it here because it’s of genuine interest, and not entirely because of its fantastic name. Although that does help. Really, who names a car Seagull?

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More significantly, BYD is expanding its UK line-up, and while the Seagull is so far only confirmed for China, it’s the sort of machine that would surely fit nicely over here. At 3780mm long it sits below the Dolphin in terms of size, and is broadly similar in size to a Volkswagen e-Up.

There are short overhangs at each end, a short Bonney and an upright rear end. Notably, it’s understood to use the same BYD Platform 3.0 as the Dolphin, Seal and Atto 3. It certainly maintains the design features of those models, albeit with slightly more angular edges.

Reports suggest it will be offered with a choice of 55kW and 75kW motors, both of which will drive the front wheels. There will also be a choice of two batteries: 30kWh 38kWh units, with the latter offering around 250 miles of range. 

The relatively simple interior features a 12.8in central touchscreen, which like in other BYD models can rotate. The small dimensions of the machine means that boot space does seem to be limited, although during our visit to BYD’s Shanghai stand we were able to confirm you can fit at least one Chinese influencer in it.

Still, the notable aspect of the car is its price: it’s reported that it will cost the equivalent of £7800. 

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