BYD is set to expand its electric hatchback lineup with the upcoming Great Seagull, a model positioned between the popular Dolphin and Seagull (Dolphin Surf) in size. The new variant, officially named at the Chengdu Auto Show, is expected to go on sale by the end of 2026. The Great Seagull aims to build on the global success of the Seagull, which ranked as the sixth-best-selling EV worldwide in the first half of 2026.
A New Addition to BYD’s Hatchback Range
The Great Seagull will slot between BYD’s Dolphin and Seagull (also known as Dolphin Surf or Dolphin Mini outside China), offering a larger footprint and enhanced features. The model was first previewed last month by Zhang Zhuo, sales boss for BYD’s Ocean series, who shared, “As its silhouette gradually emerges in the shadows, the promise of growing up is about to be fulfilled. #BYDSseagull#.”
The official name was revealed by Zhou at the Chengdu Auto Show, confirming that the Great Seagull will join BYD’s lineup by the end of 2026.
Key Specifications and Features
According to filings with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), the Great Seagull measures 4,205 mm (~165.6 inches) in length, 1,810 mm (~71.3 inches) in width, and 1,570 mm (~61.8 inches) in height, with a 2,650 mm (~104.3 inches) wheelbase. This makes it notably larger than the current Seagull, which is 3,780 mm (~148.8 inches) long.
The new model will be powered by a 95 kW (127 hp) electric motor, a significant upgrade from the 55 kW (75 hp) unit in the current Seagull. While battery specifications for the Great Seagull have not yet been disclosed, the 2026 Seagull is available with 30.08 kWh and 38.88 kWh battery packs, offering CLTC ranges of up to 305 km (~190 miles) and 405 km (~251 miles), respectively.
The preview images show the Great Seagull equipped with a LiDAR sensor on the roof, indicating the addition of advanced safety and convenience features. Inside, the cabin adopts BYD’s latest interior design, featuring a floating center infotainment screen and a redesigned center console.
Naming and Market Position
The Great Seagull follows BYD’s new naming convention, joining flagship models like the Great Tang SUV and Great Han sedan. The current Seagull starts at $10,373 (~AUD 14,497) in China, and while pricing for the Great Seagull has not been announced, it is expected to be positioned slightly higher.
Why this matters
The introduction of the Great Seagull expands BYD’s electric hatchback offerings, targeting buyers seeking a larger, more powerful alternative to the existing Seagull. With the Seagull already achieving strong global sales, the Great Seagull could further strengthen BYD’s presence in the affordable EV segment.
The addition of features like a larger motor, advanced safety technology, and updated interior design reflects BYD’s ongoing efforts to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.
What this means for buyers
Buyers interested in an affordable yet spacious electric hatchback will soon have another option in BYD’s lineup. Those considering the current Seagull or Dolphin may want to wait for the Great Seagull’s launch later in 2026, especially if they value more interior space and upgraded features.
As more details on pricing and battery options are released, prospective buyers should compare the Great Seagull’s specifications with other models in the segment to determine the best fit for their needs.
Key Specs
- Length: 4,205 mm (~165.6 inches)
- Width: 1,810 mm (~71.3 inches)
- Height: 1,570 mm (~61.8 inches)
- Wheelbase: 2,650 mm (~104.3 inches)
- Electric Motor Output: 95 kW (127 hp)
- Current Seagull Motor Output: 55 kW (75 hp)
- Battery Options (2026 Seagull): 30.08 kWh / 38.88 kWh
- CLTC Range (2026 Seagull): 305 km (~190 miles) / 405 km (~251 miles)
Source
Images sourced from: electrek.co, autodeal.com.ph
