BYD has scheduled the launch of the second generation of the electric hatchback Seagull for October 20, 2026. The new model is significantly larger than its predecessor and has received an expanded set of electronic systems. One of the trim levels includes a lidar — a laser sensor for building a three-dimensional picture of the surrounding space and for driver assistance systems.
The new Seagull is 4205 mm long, 1810 mm wide, and 1570 mm high. The wheelbase has grown to 2650 mm. Compared to the previous model, the car has become 425 mm longer, and the distance between the axles has increased by 150 mm. Seating capacity has increased from four to five people.
The hatchback received a 95 kW, or 127 hp, electric motor on the rear axle. The previous generation was equipped with front-wheel drive and a 55 kW engine. For the new model, batteries with a capacity of 30 and 39.2 kWh are provided. The declared range is 320 and 420 km, respectively, according to the Chinese CLTC cycle. These figures cannot be directly compared with the results of the European WLTP cycle.
LiDAR is not available in all versions. In combination with additional radars, it is used in the DiPilot 300 complex, known in China as God’s Eye B. The presence of equipment itself does not mean that all automated driving functions will be available in every trim level.
Pre-orders in China opened on October 9, but BYD has not yet announced the prices for the new generation. It is expected that the Seagull will maintain its positioning as an affordable electric car: the current model in the Chinese market costs from 69,900 yuan (about 863 thousand rubles) to 85,900 yuan (1.75 million rubles). The final cost of the successor will be known at the official launch.