A bit late, but finally, BYD shows off the new Dolphin Surf, which is 42.5 cm longer, offers a range of up to 420 km, and features a LiDAR.

23/09/2026 13:00

Updated to

23/09/2026 13:38

BYD continues to gradually reveal one of its upcoming most important electric vehicles. The company has released the first official sketches of the second generation of the Seagull, known in Europe as BYD Dolphin Surf, following its appearance almost uncamouflaged during a photoshoot in China just a few days ago.

The name is particularly interesting. Zhang Zhuo, BYD’s Ocean network sales director, had previously stated that this model would enter the Chinese market as Great Seagull or Da Haiou. However, by releasing these new sketches, he directly named it “Second Generation Seagull.” It’s clear this isn’t just a simple update, as the car features a new design, has grown significantly in size, and comes with a different interior layout.

Much larger than the current BYD Dolphin Surf

As we reported recently after the first actual images of the car appeared, the new model measures 4,205 mm in length, 1,810 mm in width, and 1,570 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,650 mm. This represents an additional 425 mm in length compared to the current Seagull. In fact, it is only 65 mm shorter than the BYD Dolphin, demonstrating just how much this company’s urban electric vehicle has grown.

The sketches released by BYD now allow for a better glimpse of its final design. Notable features include large front headlights with a three-point lighting signature, prominently defined wheel arches, and much more angular surfaces. It also features 16-inch wheels with eight spokes, very narrow rear lights, and a lower glass line that BYD aims to give it a more dynamic appearance.

The changes will also affect the interior. BYD mentions a completely new layout that will increase the available space for passengers. The spy photos we saw earlier also showed a large floating central screen, a gear selector located behind the steering wheel, and a much larger center console than that of the current Dolphin Surf.

Up to 420 km of range and LiDAR on the roof

Chinese regulatory documentation has already revealed much about its mechanics. The new Seagull will use an electric motor with 127 CV of power and can be equipped with two LFP batteries manufactured by FinDreams, BYD’s specialized division. The first battery will have a capacity of 30 kWh, while the second will reach up to 39.2 kWh.

Depending on the battery chosen, it will offer a range of 320 to 420 km under China’s CLTC cycle. Its top speed will be 150 km/h. In our recent article featuring the first images of the new model, we estimated that these figures could translate to approximately 259 and 340 km under the more stringent European WLTP cycle, although there is still no official European approval for this second generation.

It is particularly surprising to find a LiDAR sensor installed on the roof of an entry-level electric vehicle. It will be part of the DiPilot 300 system, also known as 'God's Eye B', and will enable advanced driving assistance features, including assisted navigation for both highway and urban environments.

BYD also has commercial reasons to thoroughly upgrade its smallest electric vehicle. The current Seagull sold 74,087 units in China from January to August 2026, which is 66.5% less than during the same period last year. Its price there ranges from 69,900 to 85,900 yuan, approximately equivalent to 8,300 to 10,200 euros at current exchange rates. BYD has not yet announced the price of this second generation, though its launch in China is expected soon.