BYD has launched the 2026 Seagull, known as the Dolphin Mini or Dolphin Surf in international markets. This upgraded version comes in four variants, priced between 69,900-85,900 yuan (10,300-12,600 USD).
A key feature is the optional God’s Eye B (DiPilot 300) intelligent driving assistance system, which integrates lidar technology. Opting for this package raises the vehicle's price to 90,900-97,900 yuan (13,400-14,400 USD).
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The 2026 BYD Seagull features lidar on its roof. Photo: BYD |
The Seagull is a compact electric hatchback, measuring 3,780 mm in length. The 2026 model introduces new colors, 16-inch Starlight wheels, and LED taillights, while retaining its 74 hp motor. Models equipped with lidar are easily recognizable by an "eye-like" sensor mounted on the front roof, reminiscent of the air intake on a McLaren 675LT supercar.
An option costing 3,100 USD on a 10,300 USD vehicle appears disproportionate, but lidar technology is expensive. This high cost led BMW and Mercedes, who previously offered lidar as part of level 3 autonomous driving assistance packages on their flagship 7 series and S-class models, to remove the approximately 7,000 USD option from their latest iterations.
Earlier 7 series and S-class models with lidar sensors integrated them into the grille, a different approach compared to the roof-mounted placement seen on many Chinese vehicles.
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Lidar is located in the grille of the BMW 7 series. Photo: BMW |
Despite its lidar sensor, the Seagull's DiPilot 300 system remains an advanced level 2 system, not level 3. BYD, however, indicates that level 3 autonomous driving is a future development focus for some of its other models.
Beyond the lidar option, the 2026 Seagull features an "Oatmeal Rice"-themed cabin, the DiLink 150 system, and a 12.8-inch high-resolution central display that supports 3D vehicle control and custom navigation.
In China, BYD Seagull sales peaked at 34,005 units in 4/2025. Following sales of 30,708 units in 6/2025, the Seagull has not surpassed the 30,000-vehicle mark again.
This decline is due to competition from the Geely Xingyuan (also known as Geely EX2), which was China's top-selling new energy vehicle in 2025. The segment also sees increasing rivalry from new entrants like the Arcfox T1, launched in 2025, and the Leapmotor A10, introduced this past March.
By My Anh (Source: CarNewsChina, Carscoops)
