All new Seagull five-door electric hatchback revealed by BYD, Comes with LiDAR Tech, 500+km driving range from a 60kW battery produces 80 horsepower.
Recently introduced at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show, the BYD Dolphin Mini (internationally known as the BYD Seagull) impressed with its appearance. LiDAR‑based smart driving, high-range enhancement, and minor design improvements have made BYD present this small electric vehicle as a powerful competitor in the global low-cost electric vehicle market.
Pricing
The BYD Seagull, or Dolphin Mini as it’s called internationally, is an electric vehicle (EV) that’s set to delight Indian consumers when it launches in the country soon. Priced between 80,000-95,000 CNY (₹8 lakh and ₹13 lakh), the city car-sized EV is set to have a significant presence in the budget market.
The basic models are expected to begin from ₹8 lakh, making them a popular option for city dwellers looking for an affordable electric vehicle. In contrast, the premium variants, with bigger batteries, longer range and more sophisticated features such as the LiDAR-equipped “God’s Eye B” driver assistance package are likely to cost between ₹10 lakh and ₹13 lakh.
This pricing approach by BYD is designed to balance cost and cutting-edge technology, providing eco-friendly transportation for everyone while also catering to those who want to spend more for high-end features.
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Long Range and Greater Efficiency
The 2026 update pays special attention to technological progress and productivity. A significant enhancement of the BYD Seagull is the increased full range. The high-spec model now covers 505 km with a CLTC rating, a significant upgrade from the previously rated 405 km. This increase is not only better usability for everyday commuting but also makes the vehicle more practical for longer treks, which is a primary concern among EV buyers.
Introduction of LiDAR and Smart Driving
The other innovative feature is the introduction of LiDAR technology. The Seagull is the first model equipped with a LiDAR sensor on the roof, allowing BYD to use its advanced driver assistance system, God’s Eye B (DiPilot 300). This system promotes features such as urban express navigation, lane assistance, and automated valet parking, as it is a step closer to semi-autonomous driving. This upgrade really enhances its value proposition, given its low-price strategy.
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Enhanced Motor Performance
BYD has marginally increased the motor to support the additional weight of the added batteries and sensors. The electric motor has increased to 60kW (about 80 horsepower) from 55 kW before. Although the boost might be slightly less on paper, it promises smoother acceleration and overall efficiency, ensuring performance is balanced even with the technological additions.
Exterior Design Updates
On the design side, the Seagull still maintains the BYD Ocean Aesthetics theme, which the company has adopted to maintain a familiar image. But minor exterior changes enhance style and functionality. A new red color choice freshens up the lineup, with some of its old 16-inch wheels improved to give the car a better stance. The dual wipers, compared to the previous single wiper, enhance visibility during severe weather conditions. Other functions that reflect the incorporation of the advanced driver-assistance are front fender cameras and a small blue rear indicator.
Interior Comfort and Convenience
The updates in the cabin were aimed at making it more comfortable and user-friendly. The improved 50W wireless fast charging system has added dedicated cooling vents, ensuring effective and safe charging of their devices. Control of the steering wheel is simplified, with more intuitive controls, and variants with ADAS now have smart driving paddles to use for assistance. The re-modeled center console, with its color-matched buttons and flip-top armrest box, makes it practical and provides a high-quality look.
Overall Driving Experience and Market Position
These upgrades all combine to enhance the driving experience and make the Seagull feel higher than it should. BYD has managed to achieve such a high level without reducing costs, which has enhanced its appeal internationally. In market terms, this update also helps it compete with rivals such as the Geely Geome Xingyuan. The LiDAR and extended-range features position the Seagull in a distinct niche in the fast-developing entry-level EV market.
State-of-the-art technology, an enhanced range, and an aggressive price position the 2026 Seagull as the leader in affordable EVs, and advanced electric mobility will be more widely available in the global market.
