The BYD Seagull is shaking up the electric vehicle (EV) market as one of the most affordable and practical city cars available today. Priced at just $9,859 (China) or ₱898,000 (Philippines), this compact hatchback proves that EVs don’t have to be expensive to be well-equipped and fun to drive 79.
As a car expert and blogger, I’ve analyzed the Seagull’s design, performance, tech, and real-world usability. Here’s everything you need to know about BYD’s game-changing EV.
1. Overview: BYD’s Smallest & Most Affordable EV
The Seagull (sold as Dolphin Mini in Latin America and Dolphin Surf in Europe) is BYD’s entry-level EV, sitting below the Dolphin in the Ocean Series lineup 7.
- Price: Starts at $9,859 (China), ₱898,000 (Philippines) 79.
- Body Style: 5-door hatchback (3.78m long, 1.715m wide) 7.
- Battery Options:
- 30.08 kWh (305 km CLTC range)
- 38.88 kWh (405 km CLTC range) 7.
- Motor: 75 PS (55 kW), 135 Nm torque, FWD 7.
Why It Matters?
BYD sold 200,000 Seagulls in just 7 months after launch, proving its mass-market appeal 7.
2. Design: Compact Yet Aggressive
The Seagull stands out with its sharp, angular styling, reportedly influenced by ex-Lamborghini/Audi designer Wolfgang Egger 37.
Exterior Highlights:
- Lamborghini-inspired front end with trapezoidal LED headlights 3.
- Single wiper blade (cost-saving measure) 8.
- 16-inch alloy wheels (Philippines spec) 9.
- Through-type LED taillights for a modern look 10.
Interior: Surprisingly Premium for the Price
- 10.1-inch rotating touchscreen (BYD’s signature feature) 79.
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel & seats (unexpected at this price) 8.
- Two-tone dashboard with a “bird’s wing” theme 9.
- Decent space for 4 adults (though rear legroom is tight) 3.
3. Performance & Driving Experience
Acceleration & Top Speed
- 0-50 km/h: 4.9 sec (zippy for city driving) 7.
- Top speed: 130 km/h (adequate for highways) 7.
Real-World Range & Efficiency
- 300 km (30 kWh battery) in mixed driving 4.
- Up to 12.5 km/kWh if driven efficiently 1.
- DC fast charging: 30-80% in 30 mins 4.
Handling & Ride Comfort
- Firm suspension (typical for small EVs) but absorbs bumps well 3.
- Light steering makes it easy to maneuver in traffic 3.
- Tire choice (Ling Long brand) limits grip 3.
4. Technology & Features
Infotainment & Connectivity
- 10.1-inch rotating touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto 49.
- Voice control & 4G connectivity 9.
Safety (Impressive for the Price!)
- 6 airbags (uncommon in sub-₱900k cars) 4.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) & ABS with EBD 9.
- Rearview camera & parking sensors 9.
2025 Upgrades
- God’s Eye ADAS (DiPilot 100) in higher trims 10.
- Improved headlights for better night visibility 10.
5. Who Should Buy the BYD Seagull?
✅ City commuters – Perfect for tight urban streets.
✅ First-time EV buyers – Low price, easy to drive.
✅ Eco-conscious drivers – Zero emissions, low running costs.
❌ Not ideal for:
- Long highway trips (limited range).
- Families needing big cargo space (only 230L trunk).
Final Verdict: Best Budget EV?
The BYD Seagull is a well-built, feature-packed EV that punches above its weight. While it has some compromises (noise at high speeds, small battery), its price-to-value ratio is unmatched 38.
Rating: 8.5/10 ★★★★☆
Where to Buy?
- Philippines: ACMobility dealers (₱898,000) 4.
- China/Global: BYD Ocean Network stores 7.
🚗 Would you buy the BYD Seagull? Let me know in the comments!