The second-generation BYD Seagull (or ‘Dolphin Surf’ in the UK) has been unveiled in China with a raft of major changes, including a rear-mounted 127bhp motor, a 94-litre frunk, and rumoured compatibility with BYD’s ultra-rapid Flash charging network.
New BYD Dolphin Surf exterior design
The BYD Dolphin Surf’s design has undergone several key changes, and it now has a more grown-up appearance than the outgoing car. While the Dolphin Surf’s upright stance remains, BYD appears to have introduced a set of new front headlamps, along with a less angular front bumper, a new tailgate, a rear diffuser, and a roof spoiler.
In line with the Chinese Government’s ban on flush door handles, these have been replaced by semi-hidden mechanical units. The 16-inch, four-spoke alloy wheels and 205/60 R16 tyres are also new, giving the Dolphin Surf a wider, more purposeful stance. In general, BYD’s designers have toned down the previous version’s wedgy, unorthodox design.
Interior design
Inside, the changes continue. The previous BYD Dolphin Surf’s unorthodox air-conditioning controls have been replaced by a more conventional, physical button arrangement in the centre of the dashboard beneath the air vents.
The infotainment screen is now fixed, and a lightbar runs the width of the cabin. Based on images issued by BYD in China, the material quality used throughout appears to be vastly superior to the first-gen car, as do the screen’s graphics. A two-spoke steering wheel, plus an optional massaging driver seat is a new addition, too.
New BYD Dolphin Surf tech and performance
BYD has tweaked the new Dolphin Surf’s underpinnings and has replaced the supermini’s rear torsion beam with an independent, multi-link setup. In the Chinese market, power is up by almost 50% from 73bhp to 127bhp.
Paired with BYD’s decision to move the electric motor from the front to the rear axle, the extra horses should make the new Dolphin Surf more engaging to drive than its predecessor. This configuration change also brings it closer to its main rival, the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) Geely EX2 supermini, which is China’s best-selling car.
Test versions of the new Dolphin Surf have been spied charging at BYD’s ‘Flash’ charging stations, prompting suggestions that it will be compatible with the company’s 1,500-kilowatt charging network. BYD, however, still has to confirm full battery specs, charging rates, and times.
Other test cars in China have also been seen fitted with a roof-mounted LiDAR pod supporting BYD’s God’s Eye B, Level 2 driving-assistance package, which introduces automated highway and urban navigation, lane-change assist, obstacle avoidance, and automated parking.
Pricing
For now, the new BYD Dolphin Surf is only on sale in China, where pricing has yet to be confirmed. Given the new tech and technical changes, it is expected to cost more than the current model’s 69,900 – 85,900 yuan (around £7,900 to £9,700) price tag.
With BYD currently the second most-popular carmaker in the UK, the new Dolphin Surf is expected to arrive here soon. EV Powered has reached out to BYD UK for confirmation and an arrival date. Pricing for the current model starts at £21,975 for the entry-level ‘Boost’ trim, and increases to a Renault 5-bordering £23,975 for the range-topping Comfort.
