BYD has launched its updated Seagull electric car in China on Tuesday. The company’s smallest model is now larger and more capable, with added power, faster charging and improved features while keeping prices low. The changes aim to strengthen its appeal as an affordable electric vehicle.

The new Seagull measures 4205 mm in length, an increase of 425 mm, with a wheelbase extended by 150 mm to 2650 mm. Width grows to 1810 mm and height drops slightly to 1570 mm. Power rises to 95 kW, or 127 horsepower, from the previous 55 kW. It switches to rear-wheel drive with an independent multilink suspension. Weights range from 1180 kg for entry models to 1255 kg for the top version.

Battery sizes remain nearly the same at 30.1 kWh and 39.2 kWh. Official CLTC ranges improve by 15 km to 320 km and 420 km. BYD claims class-leading efficiency of 9 kWh per 100 km. Flash Charging allows a charge from 10 to 70 percent in five minutes and from 10 to 97 percent in nine minutes. The company has installed 12,165 Flash Charging stations so far this year and plans 20,000 by year-end. Buyers receive one free year of unlimited charging.

The longer body supports better safety with larger crumple zones and active features, including a LiDAR-equipped God’s Eye system on some versions. Cargo space holds two 24-inch and two 20-inch suitcases plus a 94-liter front trunk. The cabin offers 31 storage areas, a center rear seat, and power front seats with heating, ventilation and driver-side massage.

Prices start at 65,900 RMB, or about 9,966 US dollars, and reach 99,900 RMB for the fully equipped top model. Flash Charging begins at 75,900 RMB. Base models include a 7 kW home charger, and a 3,000 RMB discount applies at launch. The update positions the Seagull as a practical compact electric option with potential wider influence in China and other markets.

(CT)