China’s automotive giant BYD is making waves in the electric vehicle market with the launch of its cheapest electric car yet, the Seagull EV. BYD is set to debut Seagull EV in Europe next year, already causing a stir among foreign rivals with its impressive combination of affordability, efficiency, and innovative design.
BYD has already declared a “liberation battle” against gas-powered vehicles early this year in line with its commitment to electrification. The launch of Seagull Honor Edition, starting at just $9,700 (69,800 yuan) exemplifies the BYD aims. At the event of Caresoft Global Terry Woychowski, former GM executive and president of automotive, called BYD’s low-cost Seagull a potential “clarion call for the rest of the industry” earlier this year.
Design And Features
Nicknamed the “mini Lamborghini ” due to the involvement of former Lamborghini designer Wolfgang Egger, the Seagull boasts an attractive yet minimalist design. The low-cost EV doesn’t compromise on the features despite its low price tag. The interior is equipped with a 10.1-inch rotating center screen and BYD’s DiLing intelligent network that’s allowing users to get an interactive and media-rich experience.
In China, the Seagull is available in three trims. The base Active model starts at under $10,000 (69,800 yuan), the mid-tier Free trim at $10,500 (75,800 yuan), and the top-tier Flying model at $12,000 (85,800 yuan). Also the coming EV is powered by BYD’s Blade batteries in two variants: a 30.08-kWh model offering a 190-mile (305 km) CLTC range and a 38.88-kWh model with a 252-mile (405 km) CLTC range.
Caresoft, an engineering and consulting firm, looks at every vehicle component to determine how it can be improved for its clients. He was particularly impressed by the Seagull’s simplicity, efficient design, quality, and reliability after testing the vehicle.
The affordable EV is creating a stir among rivals. Ford CEO Jim Farley called it a “pretty damn good” car. Meanwhile, Martin Sander, head of Ford’s European EV unit, said, “Of course, we are nervous when new competition is coming to the market.”
In overseas markets like Brazil, where it’s sold under the name Dolphin Mini, the Seagull has been competitively priced at around $20,000 (99,800 BRL), significantly undercutting many competitors. Similarly, in Mexico, the Seagull starts at $19,780 (358,800 pesos), demonstrating high demand and market potential despite initial reservations.
Now BYD is aiming to expand its market even higher. Next year the brand will launch the Seagull EV in the European market to compete with VW, Stellantis and other giant automakers of the continent. Despite potential tariffs, BYD anticipates the Seagull will start at less than 20,000 euros ($21,500), which is still thousands of euros cheaper than its closest rivals. BYD’s European managing director, Michael Shu, also hinted at the launch of a higher-end electric car priced around 25,000 euros ($27,000).
BYD’s futuristic expansion plan into Europe includes two new plants in the region, aimed at mitigating the effects of EU tariffs on China-made EVs. This move is poised to solidify BYD’s position as a formidable player in the global EV market.
