BYD Seagull Welcomes Its 'Big Brother': Spy Shots and MIIT Filing Details for the 2026 Seagull Plus Revealed

The BYD-branded global best-selling micro BEV — the Seagull (sold overseas as the Dolphin MINI / Dolphin Surf) — is set to receive a comprehensively upgraded derivative model in both size and performance. Multiple sources confirm the vehicle has been officially named the Seagull Plus (Great Seagull), with a planned market launch in China by the end of 2026.

In the first half of 2026, the current Seagull ranked sixth globally among all-electric models with over 27,500 units sold worldwide (per Cleantechnica data). Its starting price in China stands at just ¥69,900 — making it one of the most affordable production BEVs on the market today. The new model will fill the product gap between the Seagull and Dolphin, strengthening Ocean Network's entry-level lineup.

The name was first publicly confirmed by Zhou Zhuo, Sales Director of BYD Ocean Network, during the Chengdu Auto Show. Earlier, Zhang Zhuo, another BYD Ocean Network Sales Director, had teased a blurred silhouette on social media with the caption: "As the outline gradually emerges from shadow, the promise of growth is about to be fulfilled." The latest batch of MIIT's New Energy Vehicle Filing Directory has now disclosed key specifications: overall dimensions of 4205 mm × 1810 mm × 1570 mm, and a wheelbase of 2650 mm — significantly longer than the current Seagull (3780 mm in length), approaching the scale of a compact hatchback.

Powertrain details show a permanent-magnet synchronous motor rated at up to 95 kW (~127 hp), a notable increase over the current Seagull's 55 kW (75 hp) unit; torque figures remain undisclosed. Battery and range specs have not yet been officially announced, though industry consensus expects adoption of BYD's next-generation Blade Battery 2.0 platform — potentially supporting fast charging. Notably, spy photos reveal a roof-mounted LiDAR mounting point, suggesting high-end intelligent driving features may be offered as an optional package.

The current 2026 Seagull offers two battery options — 30.08 kWh and 38.88 kWh — delivering CLTC ranges of 305 km and 405 km, respectively. While Seagull Plus pricing remains unannounced, its larger dimensions, enhanced powertrain, and likely tech upgrades suggest a starting price above ¥69,900 — though it is expected to retain its hallmark value-for-money positioning.

Exterior styling adopts an all-new design language: a front fascia featuring slim LED headlights, a closed-off grille, and sharp, sculpted body lines. Inside, it debuts a larger central touchscreen, a redesigned center console layout, and a two-spoke steering wheel — aligning its aesthetic more closely with the Dolphin and Seal. Its naming convention also continues BYD's "Plus" family strategy — following the唐Plus (Tang Plus) and汉Plus (Han Plus) — further reinforcing brand-wide recognition.