BYD closes the gap between the Dolphin Surf and Dolphin
BYD is working on a new electric supermini currently known in China as the Great Seagull, or Da Haiou. The model is set to be positioned above the Seagull sold there, which is marketed in Europe as the Dolphin Surf, while remaining below the larger BYD Dolphin.
New images show the vehicle outside conventional product renderings for the first time. Notable features include the closed-off front, polygonal lights and a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor. The new Ink Green paint finish also clearly distinguishes the EV from the existing Seagull.
4.21 metres long with a significantly longer wheelbase
At 4,205 mm long, 1,810 mm wide and 1,570 mm tall, the Great Seagull grows to nearly the same size as the Dolphin. Particularly significant is the wheelbase, which increases by 150 mm to 2,650 mm.
The additional distance between the axles should primarily benefit rear-seat passengers. At the same time, the vehicle remains compact enough for urban driving. This confirms the direction already indicated by the announced larger BYD Dolphin Surf.
The Great Seagull is not simply a replacement for the existing Seagull, but a roomier and more technically sophisticated addition.
Two LFP batteries and up to 340 km under WLTP
Power is set to come from a permanent-magnet synchronous motor producing 95 kW. The top speed is 150 km/h, which would make the supermini sufficiently powerful for regular motorway driving.
| Specification | Small battery | Large battery |
|---|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 30 kWh | 39.2 kWh |
| CLTC range | 320 km | 420 km |
| Stated WLTP estimate | around 259 km | around 340 km |
| Motor output | 95 kW | 95 kW |
| Top speed | 150 km/h | 150 km/h |
The batteries come from BYD subsidiary FinDreams and use robust lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry. It does not use nickel or cobalt, is considered durable and plays a particularly important role in value-oriented electric cars. The development of the LFP share in China also shows how strongly the technology now shapes the Chinese market.
For now, the stated European range figures are only intended as a guide. Official WLTP homologation for the DACH region—Germany, Austria and Switzerland—is not yet available, nor are there any details about charging power.
LiDAR enables more advanced driver assistance functions
The roof-mounted sensor array points to BYD’s God’s Eye B, also known as DiPilot 300, driver assistance package. In China, the system is expected to offer navigation-assisted driving functions in cities and on motorways, automatic lane changes, traffic sign recognition and automated parking, among other features.
LiDAR uses laser pulses to detect the vehicle’s surroundings and provides precise spatial information. Combined with cameras, radar and software, it can improve the detection of vehicles, obstacles and road boundaries.
No definitive conclusions about European functionality can yet be drawn from this. Driver assistance systems must be adapted to regional traffic regulations and approved separately. Moreover, the driver remains responsible when using current production systems.
Interior centres on a large touchscreen
Based on current information, BYD is dispensing with a conventional instrument display behind the steering wheel. The most important information will instead be shown on a larger central touchscreen. Other features include a simple two-spoke steering wheel and a spacious-looking centre console.
While this reduces the number of visible controls, it requires a well-designed software interface. It remains unclear whether BYD plans to provide additional buttons or a head-up display for key functions. The cabin shown so far may also change before series production begins.
European launch remains uncertain for now
The current Seagull starts at 69,800 yuan in China. The larger Great Seagull is likely to cost more due to its dimensions, more powerful motor and more extensive sensor technology. However, Chinese prices cannot be applied directly to Germany, Austria or Switzerland because equipment, taxes, tariffs and distribution costs differ.
In July 2026, BYD sold 10,103 Seagulls and 16,829 Dolphins in China. A model positioned between the two ranges could therefore fill an interesting gap. BYD has not yet confirmed whether it will eventually come to Europe as a standalone vehicle or as a new version of the Dolphin Surf.
