BYD Seagull 2026 Model Spy Photos Leaked: Rear-Wheel Drive + Optional LiDAR

Recently, spy photos of the 2026 facelifted BYD Seagull (sold overseas as the Atto 2) have surfaced from multiple locations across China. The model has been confirmed to adopt an all-new rear-mounted motor, rear-wheel drive (RWD) architecture, and — for the first time — offers optional LiDAR integration with its DiPilot 300 intelligent driving system. Notably, the vehicle retains its domestic name "Yuan Up". Its official launch date remains unannounced, though it is expected to complete regulatory approval and begin pre-sales within 2026.

Subtle Exterior Updates, Charging Port Relocated to Rear

Spy shots reveal the new model largely preserves the current silhouette, but the front bumper no longer features the colored lower lip trim. Green-accented details appear on the wheel arches, side skirts, door handles, and exterior mirrors — likely part of camouflage livery during testing, and it remains unclear whether these will carry over as optional styling packages in production. Interior changes are minimal: only the steering wheel center badge has been updated to the Chinese character "元" ("Yuan"), distinguishing it from the global Atto 2.

The charging port location has been significantly revised — moved from the front fender to the left rear fender, adopting a design more akin to conventional fuel filler caps. This change may aim to better accommodate Chinese drivers' common habit of reversing into charging stations, though official confirmation of any real-world convenience gains is still pending.

Chassis Overhaul: Wheelbase Extended by 150 mm, Multi-Link Rear Suspension Standard

The most critical mechanical upgrade lies in the chassis: a fully re-engineered structure featuring a rear-mounted motor and RWD layout. Powertrain options are expected to include two rear-mounted motor variants — 100 kW (134 hp) and 120 kW (161 hp), slightly below the current front-wheel-drive top-spec 130 kW (174 hp) unit. Overall dimensions increase accordingly: length × width × height measures 4,665 mm × 1,895 mm × 1,675 mm, with wheelbase extended to 2,770 mm (up 150 mm vs. current model), potentially improving rear legroom and cabin openness.

The suspension system also receives a full upgrade: MacPherson struts up front and multi-link independent rear suspension standard across all trims — matching key rivals like the GEELYE X2 (Star Wish), aiming to enhance ride quality and cornering stability.

Battery & Intelligent Driving: LFP Blade Battery + Optional LiDAR, No Flash Charging Yet

The new model will be equipped with either a 42 kWh or 52 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack, delivering CLTC-rated ranges of 410 km and 505 km respectively. It confirms use of BYD's first-generation Blade Battery cells, built on a 400 V platform. Notably, this version does not yet feature BYD's promoted "5-minute flash charging" technology; maximum DC fast-charging power remains capped at 65 kW — significantly lower than the export-spec Atto 2's peak of 155 kW.

For intelligent driving, the vehicle may offer optional LiDAR modules supporting the DiPilot 300 system — a solution already deployed on models such as the Dolphin and Seal DM-i, available for an additional ~¥12,000. In contrast, rival models — including the NEVO Q05, MG4 Urban, and GEELYEX2 — currently rely solely on vision + millimeter-wave radar fusion systems.

Market Performance & Competitive Landscape

According to China EV DataTracker, BYD Yuan Up (Atto 2) sold 17,043 units domestically in May 2026, with monthly peaks exceeding 20,000 units. Meanwhile, rival GEELYE X2 delivered 38,751 units that month — roughly double the volume. With this round of upgrades to chassis, drivetrain, and intelligent driving capability, Yuan Up stands to narrow the overall competitiveness gap with leading rivals. Current domestic pricing spans ¥74,800–¥119,800; exact pricing and trim configurations for the 2026 model remain unannounced.