BYD's newest electric vehicle is priced at just over $10,000, features a range of 250 miles, and comes equipped with LiDAR technology as well.
LiDAR, 250 miles, and a five-figure price: the 2026 Seagull exemplifies that the future of affordable EVs is already present, just not in Western markets.
BYD has officially launched the 2026 Seagull, known internationally as the Dolphin Mini or Dolphin Surf, and its specifications are noteworthy.
This updated compact electric vehicle starts at 69,900 yuan (approximately $10,300) in China and goes up to 85,900 yuan (roughly $12,600). It was first introduced at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show and is now available for purchase (via CarsNewsChina).
The 2026 BYD Seagull has a price range from 69,900 to 97,900 RMB, with the top two models equipped with LiDAR, DiPilot-300, and DiLink-150, which provide the necessary hardware and software for the latest smart car technologies. This upgraded package adds 12,000 RMB to the standard DiPilot-100 configuration, while still offering ranges of 305/405 km.
What can consumers expect to receive for their investment?
A significant feature this year is the optional “God’s Eye B” advanced driving package, known as the DiPilot 300 system, which integrates a LiDAR sensor into the subcompact city car, raising its cost to between $13,400 and $14,400.
This system allows for city-level navigation on autopilot, along with functionalities such as traffic light recognition and handling roundabouts. Such semi-autonomous capabilities are found at a price point where many car buyers in the U.S. are still choosing between older Toyota and Chevy models.
The longer-range version of the BYD comes with a 38.88 kWh battery, offering up to 252 miles of range as certified by CLTC. Conversely, the base models include a 30.08 kWh battery that provides up to 190 miles of claimed range.
BYD's subcompact city vehicle has plenty of power.
Since it is designed for urban driving, the new BYD electric vehicle features a 55 kW motor that produces 135 Nm of torque, numbers that may not impress initially but suit the car's intended use.
Inside, it boasts a 12.8-inch central touchscreen for navigation and 3D vehicle controls. Optional features include 50W wireless charging, heated front seats, and a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat.
To me, the 2026 update of the Seagull is not simply a product refresh. By incorporating LiDAR technology into the sub-$15,000 range, BYD is effectively making advanced driver assistance more accessible at a price point previously thought unimaginable.
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BYD's newest electric vehicle is priced at just over $10,000, features a range of 250 miles, and comes equipped with LiDAR technology as well.
BYD has recently introduced the 2026 Seagull, which comes with a starting price of $10,300. It offers an optional LiDAR driver-assist package, incorporating features typically found in high-end electric vehicles within one of the most budget-friendly electric cars available globally.
