BYD Seagull: Fun and Affordable Electric Hatchback Takes Flight

Wheelsboy Reviews China’s Newest Electric Car

China’s BYD Auto has unveiled their latest electric vehicle, the BYD Seagull, a small and affordable hatchback with a surprisingly sporty driving experience.

Aggressive Design, Budget-Friendly Price

The Seagull stands out with its sharp angles and futuristic LED lights, aiming for a bolder look compared to some competitors. This unique design comes at a budget-friendly price tag, starting at just $10,000 USD.

Two Battery Options, Decent Range

The Seagull offers two lithium iron phosphate battery pack options: 30 kWh and 39 kWh. While real-world range might be closer to 300 kilometers for the larger battery, it remains a usable range for a car in this segment. Fast charging is also available, taking the battery from 20% to 80% in around 30 minutes.

Spacious Interior with Quirks

The Seagull’s interior prioritizes comfort over cargo space. While it offers less cargo space than some rivals, the seating is surprisingly spacious and comfortable, even in the back row. Unique touches include a compact row of physical buttons below the central touchscreen and a tiny gear selector knob. Material quality reflects the car’s price point, with a mix of hard plastics and some soft-touch areas.

Safety Features Make a Stand

Unlike many small Chinese EVs, the Seagull prioritizes safety. Standard features include front airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear), and optional driver assistance systems like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control.

Surprisingly Fun to Drive

Despite its small size and single electric motor, the BYD Seagull offers a surprisingly enjoyable driving experience. The steering is more direct and responsive compared to competitors, and the wider tracks provide better handling. Upgrading the tires would further enhance this aspect.

Practical Considerations and Room for Improvement

While the Seagull offers a lot for its price, there are some compromises. The car’s noise insulation is lacking at higher speeds, and the sound system struggles to compete with road noise. However, these are common trade-offs in this segment.

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BYD Seagull GTI: A Dream for Performance Enthusiasts?

The reviewer concludes by expressing a desire for a potential BYD Seagull GTI variant. This hypothetical model would feature a more powerful motor, upgraded suspension and brakes, and better tires, creating a truly exciting electric hatchback in the budget category.