BYD’s updated Seagull hatchback has been officially listed in the latest regulatory catalogue from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. The 2026 model brings a significantly larger body and a more powerful electric motor, marking a major update to this popular urban EV.
Major Size Increase and Updated Architecture
The 2026 BYD Seagull now 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. Its wheelbase has grown to 2,650 mm (~104.3 inches), a 150 mm (~5.9 inches) increase over the previous model. The overall body length is up by 425 mm (~16.7 inches), bringing the Seagull closer in size to BYD’s larger Dolphin platform.
This expanded footprint is accompanied by a five-seat cabin layout and standard 205/60 R16 tyres across all catalogued variants. The vehicle’s curb weight starts at 1,180 kg (~2,601 lbs), with high-spec versions reaching 1,255 kg (~2,767 lbs).
Powertrain and Battery Upgrades
The new Seagull is powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor (model TZ164XYB) from Zhengzhou BYD Auto Co., Ltd., delivering 95 kW (127 hp) of peak power. This is a notable increase from the previous model’s 55 kW (75 hp) motor. The updated powertrain enables a maximum top speed of 150 km/h.
Energy storage is handled by lithium iron phosphate cells supplied and assembled by Shaoxing FinDreams Battery Co., Ltd., continuing BYD’s use of LFP chemistry for this model.
Customization and Features
BYD offers a range of exterior customization options for the Seagull, including aerodynamic wheel designs, fender embellishments, side skirt trim strips, and various regional model badges. An optional camera setup is available, integrated into the high-mounted brake light assembly, expanding the vehicle’s smart driving hardware.
Depending on the market, the Seagull is also sold as the BYD Atto 1, BYD Dolphin Surf, or BYD Dolphin Mini.
Market Performance
According to China EV DataTracker, the BYD Seagull recorded 9,825 retail sales in June 2026. In comparison, the Geely EX2 (Xingyuan) achieved 33,359 domestic deliveries during the same month, highlighting the competitive landscape for compact electric hatchbacks in China.
Why this matters
The 2026 BYD Seagull’s significant increase in size and power reflects ongoing evolution in the affordable EV segment. Regulatory certification of these updates signals BYD’s continued focus on adapting its urban EVs to changing market demands and consumer preferences.
What this means for buyers
Buyers interested in the BYD Seagull can expect a roomier interior and a stronger motor compared to previous versions. The expanded customization options and updated smart driving hardware may also appeal to those seeking a more personalized and technologically advanced urban EV.
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)
- Motor Output: 95 kW (127 hp)
- Top Speed: 150 km/h
- Curb Weight: 1,180–1,255 kg (~2,601–2,767 lbs)
- Battery Type: Lithium iron phosphate (LFP)
Source
Images sourced from: electrek.co, carnewschina.com, theautopian.com
