The upcoming BYD Seagull refresh has been caught in spy shots in China, revealing a completely redesigned interior with a large dual-layer center console and a single infotainment screen replacing the driver’s dashboard display. This first look at the interior comes after the model was listed by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) in early July, which detailed exterior dimensions and powertrain specs. The Seagull, an entry-level EV in BYD’s Ocean lineup, is also sold as the Dolphin Mini, Dolphin Surf, and Atto 1 in select markets. With a larger body, a more powerful motor, and a revamped cabin, the refreshed Seagull aims to reclaim its position in China’s competitive mini EV segment. Here’s what we know so far.
A Fresh Cabin Design
The most striking change is the new center console, which now features a sloped, dual-layer design. This layout increases vertical space on the floor, providing a convenient spot for bulky items like tissue boxes or takeaway meals. The large infotainment touchscreen sits prominently atop the console, while a row of physical buttons remains below the center air vents. Notably, the driver’s dashboard display has been removed, consolidating all information into the single central screen. The steering wheel has also been revised with angular “squircle” buttons, and the interior retains the marine blue theming with new red accents on the seat bolsters.
Bigger Dimensions, More Presence
According to MIIT listings, the refreshed Seagull has grown to 4,205 mm in length, 1,810 mm in width, and 1,570 mm in height. Its wheelbase has increased by 150 mm to 2,650 mm, offering more interior space. Consequently, curb weight now ranges from 1,180 to 1,255 kg. All new trims come with 205/60R16 tires, a significant upgrade from the current model’s 165 and 175 section tires, which should improve stability and ride comfort.
Punchier Powertrain
The refresh brings a more powerful single front motor, now outputting 95 kW (127 hp), up 40 kW (54 hp) from the current top trim. Top speed has also increased to 150 km/h. The LFP battery will be supplied by Shaoxing FinDreams Battery, a BYD subsidiary, though capacity and range figures have not been released. The car is built on a low-voltage 400V platform and does not support BYD’s Flash Charging standards. The current Seagull offers air-cooled batteries on entry-level 305 km trims, which may affect charging speeds and pack lifespan in hot climates. It remains unclear if BYD will continue offering air-cooled options to keep entry prices low.
Market Context and Competition
BYD delivered 8,879 Seagull units domestically in July 2026, according to China EV DataTracker. Once China’s best-selling car, the Seagull has been overtaken by rivals like the Geely EX2 and Leapmotor B03X. The refresh, along with potential additions like LiDAR, may be crucial for BYD to regain its edge in the mini EV segment. For overseas buyers, the Seagull’s updates could make it an even more attractive option for urban commuting and fleet use.
What This Means for Buyers
For B2B buyers, the refreshed Seagull offers a compelling package: a larger cabin, improved performance, and a modernized interior. The single-screen setup simplifies the dashboard and may reduce production costs, potentially leading to competitive pricing. However, the lack of range data and the air-cooled battery question are key factors to watch. If you’re considering importing BYD EVs, the Seagull’s refresh could be a strategic addition to your lineup.
What to watch next
As the refreshed Seagull moves closer to launch, expect more details on battery capacity, range, and pricing. BYD may also reveal whether it will offer liquid-cooled battery options to address hot-climate concerns. For overseas buyers, the Seagull’s export availability and compliance with local regulations will be critical. Stay tuned for official announcements from BYD, and consider how this updated model fits into your EV sourcing strategy.
Historical Context: The Seagull’s Rise and Fall
The BYD Seagull was launched in April 2023 as an entry-level EV, quickly becoming China’s best-selling car thanks to its low price and practical design. At its peak, monthly sales exceeded 40,000 units, according to industry reports. However, competition intensified as rivals like the Geely EX2 and Leapmotor B03X introduced similarly priced models with more features. By mid-2026, Seagull sales had dropped to under 9,000 units per month, prompting BYD to expedite this refresh. The new model’s larger dimensions and more powerful motor are direct responses to customer feedback, addressing earlier criticisms of limited space and performance. This strategic move aims to recapture market share by offering a more compelling package without significantly raising prices.
Technical Specifications and Platform Details
Underpinning the refreshed Seagull is BYD’s e-Platform 3.0, which supports both front and rear-wheel drive configurations. The 95 kW motor is paired with a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack, known for its safety and longevity. While capacity remains undisclosed, industry analysts speculate it could range from 30 to 45 kWh, offering a potential range of 300 to 400 km on the CLTC cycle. The 400V architecture ensures compatibility with existing charging infrastructure, though fast charging is limited compared to BYD’s 800V systems. The use of 205/60R16 tires across all trims is a notable upgrade, improving grip and braking performance. The interior’s dual-layer console not only adds storage but also houses wireless charging pads and USB ports, enhancing convenience for modern users.
Global Market Impact and Export Opportunities
Beyond China, the Seagull is sold as the Dolphin Mini in Latin America, Dolphin Surf in Southeast Asia, and Atto 1 in Europe and Australia. The refresh is expected to boost its appeal in these markets, where compact EVs are gaining popularity. For instance, in Europe, the Seagull’s compact size and low price make it an ideal urban commuter, potentially competing with the Dacia Spring. In Southeast Asia, where two-wheeler dominance is shifting to four-wheelers, the Seagull offers an affordable transition. For B2B buyers, the refreshed Seagull could be a profitable fleet vehicle, given its low operating costs and improved durability. BYD’s global expansion plans, including new factories in Thailand and Brazil, will likely ensure steady supply and competitive pricing for overseas buyers.
Environmental and Economic Considerations
The Seagull’s refresh aligns with global sustainability goals by promoting affordable electric mobility. The use of LFP batteries reduces reliance on cobalt, a controversial material, and enhances recyclability. Additionally, the car’s energy efficiency is expected to improve due to the new motor and tires, lowering total cost of ownership. For fleet operators, the Seagull’s 150 km/h top speed and improved range make it suitable for urban delivery and ride-hailing services. However, the air-cooled battery option on base trims may deter buyers in hot climates, as it can lead to faster degradation. BYD may address this by offering liquid cooling as an option, balancing cost and performance.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The refreshed BYD Seagull represents a significant step forward in the mini EV segment, combining a modern interior, larger dimensions, and more power. While official range and pricing are yet to be announced, the model’s potential is clear. For buyers and investors, staying informed about these developments is crucial. BYD’s official website and reliable automotive news sources will provide updates as the launch date approaches. If you’re considering importing the Seagull, now is the time to prepare your strategy, as early adopters may benefit from preferential pricing. Contact us for more information on sourcing BYD EVs through official channels.
I’m Lucian from BYD Sourcing. With more than 10 years in the automotive industry and hands-on experience with export procedures and customs clearance, I help overseas buyers source Chinese EVs – especially BYD models – through official, verified channels, for both retail and wholesale. Contact us for a competitive quote.
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