Could this little BYD hatchback become the best selling EV in China?
The automotive world is currently going through one of its biggest transitions of all time with electrification but just like with traditional petrol cars, electrification is starting to enter its climax phase, as such, diversity is key. This is why Chinese automaker, BYD, has unveiled the BYD Seagull subcompact hatchback electric vehicle (EV).
We have had all manner of EVs so far from sedans to pickup trucks and of course, the ever popular SUV. Now, it is time for the humble subcompact hatchback to shine. BYD has revealed the BYD Seagull at Auto Shanghai 2023 and begun pre sales of the car which starts from USD11,400.
Moreover, the BYD Seagull is part of the brand’s Ocean series, which also includes the Dolphin compact hatchback and Seal mid-size sedan, the Seagull is also the brand’s cheapest EV to date. This is probably the main factor behind the 10,00 orders the car has gotten in just 24 hours since its debut.
The BYD Seagull is built on the brand’s e-Platform 3.0, and is powered by a front-mounted electric motor making 74 horsepower. The car can be had with either a 30kWh or 38kWh battery pack which offer a 305km or 405km CLTC electric range respectively. It can also DC fast charge to 80 percent in just 30 minutes.
The BYD Seagull measures 3,780mm in length, 1,715mm in width and 1,540mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,500 mm. The Perodua Myvi has long been the best seller in Malaysia and is widely considered the king of our roads, so it is safe to assume that if the EV was sold here, it would also be a success.
The BYD Seagull is also a five-door, four-seat hatchback and it features a modern design somewhat similar to the BYD Dolphin. The Seagull also sports sharp LED headlights with a large windshield with a single wiper, “floating roof” design, a rear LED light bar similar to the BYD D1 minivan, and a sporty roof spoiler.
On the inside, the BYD Seagull features a 5-inch digital driver display as well as a 12.8-inch infotainment screen, a flat bottom steering wheel, a wireless charging pad, and two cup holders. So It is exactly what one would expect from a modern interior and then some. Overall it is very cosy but is probably not very spacious.
Well, if the success of the Myvi in Malaysia has taught us anything, it is that affordable subcompact hatchbacks will always prove to be high volume sellers. BYD is also fairly confident its Seagull could become the best selling EV in China within the next 6 months and I would not be surprised if it does.
We got all this from Inside EVs and their full article is linked here. Thank you Inside EVs for the information and images.
