BYD has released the official imagery for its latest electric creation – the Seagull – which is set to debut on April 18 in China.
According to reports from Car News China, the Seagull will be the smallest electric car produced by the company and will be a budget-oriented, entry-level offering with either a 55kW or 75kW electric motor.
In terms of dimensions, the Seagull – or Atto 1 – is even smaller than the Atto 2 (Dolphin) that has been spied testing in Australia. At 3780mm long, 1715mm wide and 1540mm tall, the Seagull is a little bit longer and wider than a Kia Picanto, though not by much.
The 2023 BYD Seagull is one of the smallest EVs we have seen
Two battery options – 30kWh or 38kWh – will be available from its global launch. Estimated range for these two battery sizes are 305km and 405km, respectively.
The new Seagull model has been estimated to cost around 80,000 – 100,000 yuan (AUD$17,000 – $21,500) in its local market of China.
If brought to Australia, the Seagull would ostensibly compete with other small-stature EVs such as the Cupra Born and the Nissan Leaf, though at what would likely be a much lower price point.
The Seagull will be offered with either a 55kW or 75kW electric motor
Will BYD bring the Seagull, or Atto 1, to Australia?
BYD has confirmed to Chasing Cars that the Dolphin is set for an Australian launch between April and June 2023. It’s possible that the model will be branded as Atto 2 locally.
The Dolphin is a slightly larger car than the Seagull, measuring in at 4125mm long.
Pricing could be as low as AUD$21,000 when it launches in China
BYD Australia has not confirmed any information about the Seagull, but it’s likely that the Dolphin will fill its spot in Australia – it’s unlikely that BYD would offer two compact electric cars in a shrinking segment – as electric SUVs become more of a priority for manufacturers.
The Dolphin could be priced as low as $35,000, although official pricing is yet to be confirmed.
The Seal sedan will follow on from the Dolphin later on, giving BYD three new models in Australia. A dual-cab ute is also in the works.
