The new BYD Seagull boasts stability even after a tire blowout at 140 km/h

BYD is currently in the process of launching what it aims to make the best-selling car in China: the new Seagull. Not only has it grown significantly compared to its predecessor to compete with Geely Xingyuan, the most popular sedan in Asia today, but it has also seen substantial technical improvements.

In fact, the new model is now BYD’s smallest electric vehicle compatible with the Flash Charging 2.0 ultra-fast charging system, which allows it to reach 70% charge in just 5 minutes and 97% in 9 minutes. For comparison, its rival (sold as Geely E2 in Europe) takes 25 minutes to reach 80% charge.

As part of the launch campaign for the new model, BYD has now shared a video showing how, after one of the front tires bursts at 140 km/h, the vehicle remains stable throughout. This is a clear statement of intent, especially considering it’s an affordable car.

The vehicle in the video has a device that punctures the tire at several points; yet, the Seagull manages to maintain its course while gradually reducing speed. BYD’s goal is to demonstrate that despite being a small, budget-friendly model, it offers safety levels comparable to those of much larger and more expensive cars.

The second-generation BYD Seagull is directly competing with the Geely Xingyuan

The Seagull can also be equipped with the God's Eye advanced driving assistance system, which uses a LiDAR sensor. This feature enables the NOA (Navigate on Autopilot) function in both urban areas and highways. Additionally, the vehicle comes with an automated parking system.

The BYD Seagull is larger than its predecessor, which is sold in Europe as the Dolphin Surf: it measures 4205 mm in length, 1810 mm in width, and 1570 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2650 mm. As a result, it is 425 mm longer and 150 mm wider. Its starting price is 65,900 yuan (8,875 euros at the current exchange rate).

All versions are equipped with the same 129 CV (95 kW) engine mounted on the rear axle. There are two batteries, both of the LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate) type: one with a capacity of 30 kWh that provides a range of 320 km according to CLTC standards, and another with 39.2 kWh capacity that offers a range of 420 km under the same criteria. If it makes its way to Europe (which is highly likely), it may undergo some technical upgrades.

Source | CarNewsChina