BYD Seagull EV Now Starts Below $8,000 in China

The most affordable EV in BYD’s lineup just became an even sweeter deal. In the latest wave of price reductions, the BYD Seagull—already a wallet-friendly option—is now starting at just 56,800 yuan, or under $8,000.

April Discounts: Seagull Gets a Price Cut

Amid China’s increasingly fierce EV price wars, BYD continues to tighten its grip on the affordable electric car market. The company has rolled out fresh promotions across several Ocean Series models this month, and the Seagull is right at the forefront.

The 2025 BYD Seagull now starts at just ¥56,800 (~$7,800) for the base “Vitality” trim without smart driving features. This model originally carried a price tag of ¥69,800 (~$9,500).

After introducing the Seagull last year, BYD declared it was ushering in a new era—where “electricity is cheaper than gasoline.” Earlier in 2025, the company equipped many of its models, including the Seagull, with its advanced God’s Eye smart driving system, offered at no additional cost.

Compact but Capable: Seagull Specs and Options

The Seagull comes in three trim levels in China: Vitality, Freedom, and Flying. Buyers can choose between two battery options—30.1 kWh or 38.9 kWh—offering CLTC ranges of 305 km (190 mi) and 405 km (252 mi) respectively.

Dimensions:

• Length: 3,780 mm
• Width: 1,715 mm
• Height: 1,540 mm

That’s even smaller than the now-retired Chevy Bolt EV, and it’s right in the ballpark of a Fiat 500e—ideal for tight urban spaces and daily commutes.

International Appeal: A Vehicle for the Masses

A top comment on BYD’s announcement nailed it: most of the world—especially across Africa, Asia, and South America—is desperate for low-cost vehicles. For many families riding four-deep on scooters, something like the Seagull could be a total game-changer.

While Europe and North America continue to prioritize luxury and performance, China is positioning itself as the leader in practical, accessible electric vehicles. The Seagull could be the EV to disrupt that balance.

BYD’s Sales Are Soaring

BYD isn’t just making waves with pricing—they’re breaking records in sales too. In March alone, the company sold 377,420 new energy vehicles (NEVs), pushing 2025’s total past one million already.

BYD Sales Highlights (2025 YTD):

• EV sales: 416,388
• PHEV sales: 569,710
• YOY growth: 39% (EVs), 76% (PHEVs)

BYD Seagull Pricing in China (April 2025)

TrimStarting PriceCLTC Range

Vitality ¥56,800 (~$8K) 305 km (190 mi)

Freedom ¥75,800 (~$10.3K) 305 km (190 mi)

Flying ¥85,800 (~$11.7K) 405 km (252 mi)

Going Global: Seagull’s International Footprint

Globally, BYD isn’t slowing down. It’s already sold over 206,000 vehicles overseas in 2025—a figure that’s more than doubled from last year. The Seagull has launched in Mexico and Brazil under the name Dolphin Mini.

Later this year, it’s heading to Europe as the Dolphin Surf, with starting prices expected below £20,000 (~$26,000).

While it may not be the absolute cheapest electric car on the planet, BYD’s Executive VP Stella Li insists it will be “the best value”—and that’s a compelling argument for cost-conscious EV shoppers.

Final Thoughts

With an aggressive pricing strategy and a compact, city-friendly design, the BYD Seagull is shaping up to be a global EV disruptor. Whether you’re in Shanghai, São Paulo, or soon London—affordable electric driving is coming your way.

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