BYD Dolphin Surf/Seagull reaches 1 million sales, new version adds more range

BYD is celebrating a one-millionth Seagull rolling off the production line just over a year since its debut. This is a huge milestone that shows the vehicle's immense popularity but it also proves there's a major shift in the global electric vehicle market towards more accessible and affordable options.

The BYD Seagull was first introduced in April 2023, and thanks to its aggressive pricing and feature-packed design, it has quickly captured the attention of consumers in China. The Seagull measures 148.8 inches in length, 67.5 inches in width, and 60.6 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 98.4 inches.

The 2025 model year update in China saw the introduction of a Seagull Smart Driving Edition. The pricing for these variants starts at a remarkably low RMB 69,800 (approximately $9,700) for the base model, which offers a CLTC range of 190 miles from its 30.08 kWh battery. The version with a larger 38.88 kWh battery provides up to 252 miles on a single charge.

Celebrating its one-millionth unit, BYD also unveiled a new variant priced at RMB 78,800 ($11,000), which offers the extended 252 miles range but forgoes some premium features like a panoramic camera system and sentinel mode, providing a more budget-friendly long-range option. BYD offers attractive financing options with zero down payment and interest-free loans, alongside substantial national and company-sponsored trade-in subsidies.

The Chinese models are powered by a 55 kW electric motor that produces 135 Nm of torque, delivering sprightly performance for urban driving. Inside, the car has a modern interior with a rotating 10.1-inch infotainment screen, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, and a host of smart features, making many of its more expensive competitors seem a bit dated.

The Seagull has recently landed in 15 European countries with a new name: the BYD Dolphin Surf. It has been slightly adapted for the European market but maintains the core principles of affordability and value. It is available in three price tiers, starting at $26,930 for a model with a reported range of 200 miles. The most expensive version is priced at $29,280, but offers an impressive range of up to 315 miles.

The Chinese sales figures for the Seagull speak for themselves. In May, it set a new record with 60,131 units sold, making it BYD's best-selling single model and accounting for 15.72% of the company's total monthly sales. From January to May, sales of the Seagull rocketed to 233,126 units, a 50.43% increase compared to the same period last year.

By the end of May, cumulative sales had already reached an impressive 992,637 units, paving the way for the one-million production milestone. This small, unassuming electric car is as much a success story for BYD as it is a clear indicator of the growing global appetite for electric cars that are both practical and easy on the wallet.

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