Meet the BYD Seagull, the latest sensation in the automotive world, poised to become an icon like the Ford Model T or the Volkswagen Beetle. With a starting price of around $10,000, the Seagull is not just a car; it’s a statement of affordable innovation. As BYD sets up a manufacturing plant in Mexico, the possibility of the Seagull cruising on U.S. roads seems more a question of “when” than “if.”
The Seagull’s design is refreshingly simple yet sophisticated. Its cargo space is ample, surprising for its price range, and the rear backrest folds down to enhance versatility. The vehicle measures approximately 149 inches in length with a wheelbase just under 98 inches, offering a compact yet comfortable ride.
Equipped with alloy wheels and disc brakes, the Seagull stands out in its category, where even pricier EVs like the Volkswagen ID.4 feature rear drum brakes. The door handles and hinges operate with a smoothness that rivals premium brands, reflecting BYD’s commitment to quality.
Under the hood lies a front-mounted electric motor delivering about 74 horsepower, paired with a choice of two battery packs. The base 30 kWh LFP battery and the larger 39 kWh blade cell battery offer an estimated range of 252 miles on the Chinese testing cycle.
Inside, the Seagull impresses with a clean and elegant design, featuring a digital instrument cluster and a central touchscreen. The interior boasts soft plastics, French stitching, and a suede-like dashboard material, all contributing to a sense of luxury that belies its price tag.
The BYD Seagull represents a return to the essentials of electric mobility, offering a well-crafted vehicle at an unbeatable price. While its future in the U.S. market remains uncertain due to regulatory and political factors, the Seagull has already made waves, challenging the status quo and redefining what we expect from affordable electric vehicles. If a compact city car fits your lifestyle, the BYD Seagull is a remarkable option worth considering.
