BYD to launch its smallest EV in Australia, hinting at low-cost Seagull arrival

Is BYD bringing its cheapest EV to another overseas market? BYD will officially launch an electric car even smaller than the Dolphin in Australia, hinting it could be the low-cost Seagull EV.

BYD is known for its extremely affordable electric cars. Its cheapest EV, the Seagull, starts at under $10,000 (69,800 yuan) in China.

The Seagull was the top-selling EV in China in August, its sixth straight month claiming the title. In September, BYD sold another 43,425 Seagull models, pushing total sales over the 400,000 mark for the first time.

After dominating in its home market, BYD is looking overseas to drive growth. BYD’s Seagull, known as the Dolphin Mini, is already rolling out in key markets like Mexico and Brazil.

Even overseas, the Seagull (Dolphin Mini) is among the cheapest EV options, starting at around $20,000 (99,800 BRL, 358,800 pesos).

BYD is hinting it could launch its cheapest electric car in another key overseas market. David Smith, CEO of BYD’s Australian importer, EVDirect, confirmed to Drive that it plans to launch a vehicle smaller than the Dolphin.

BYD hints at Seagull EV launch in Australia

The Dolphin was Australia’s cheapest EV when it launched in 2023. However, the compact EV has since been undercut by aggressive price cuts on the MG 4 and GWM Ora.

After slashing the price by $2,000 (AUD), BYD’s Dolphin starts at $36,890. The MG 4, through a limited-time promo, begins at $30,990.

When asked if it would regain Australia’s cheapest electric car by cutting prices further, Smith hesitated, saying, “We always want to be competitive with our competitors, but we’re also cognisant of residual values.”

Smith added that BYD is “here for the long term ” and “we always want to put the brand first.” Fluctuating prices could damage that.

Meanwhile, that doesn’t mean a cheaper model is out of the playbook. BYD’s Australian import boss explained, “Yes, there are plans for smaller vehicles, smaller SUVs as well.”

At just 3,780 mm long, BYD’s Seagull is even smaller than the Chevy Bolt EV (4,145 mm) and Toyota Yaris (4,425 mm).

BYD’s Seagull EV is available in 30.88 kWh and 38.88 kWh BYD Blade Battery options in China. The former provides up to 190 miles (305 km) CTLC range, while the latter is rated with up to 252 miles (405 km) range.

The Seagull earned the nickname “mini Lamborghini” in China as former Lamborghini designer Wolfgang Egger led its design.

Despite its compact size, the mini EV is loaded with BYD’s latest software and connectivity tech. The center 10.1″ rotating infotainment features DiLink intelligent network connection.

The smaller SUV Smith mentioned is expected to be the new Yuan Up, slotted below BYD’s popular Atto 3 model.

BYD will expand its lineup in Australia with its first pickup, the Shark PHEV, which will be launching this week. After that, BYD plans to introduce its new Sealion 7 mid-size electric SUV with models from its luxury Denza and Yangwang brands confirmed for arrival.