BYD’s ultra-affordable Seagull emerged as the top-selling EV in the Chinese market last month, with an impressive 55,000 units sold. Priced at under $10,000, this electric vehicle is the most budget-friendly option in BYD’s extensive lineup. The soaring demand for the Seagull has prompted plans for its introduction in new international markets, further solidifying its position as a popular choice among consumers.
The renowned Chinese auto manufacturer, BYD, has been making significant strides in the global automotive industry. In April 2025, the company achieved a milestone by selling a total of 380,089 new energy vehicles, which includes both EVs and PHEVs. Interestingly, electric vehicles outsold hybrids for the first time in over a year, with BYD recording a 45% increase in sales of purely electric cars compared to the previous year.
Among BYD’s impressive lineup, the Seagull EV stood out as the best-selling model, with 55,028 units sold in April alone. The Seagull is part of BYD’s Ocean and Dynasty brands, which collectively contributed to 347,053 units sold during the same period. Additionally, the premium Denza brand saw 15,388 sales, while Fang Cheng Bao and Yangwang models sold 10,039 and 135 units, respectively.
Furthermore, BYD achieved a new overseas sales record for the fifth consecutive month, with nearly 80,000 vehicles sold internationally. The company’s overseas sales figures have more than doubled from the previous year, reaching a total of 285,170 vehicles sold through April.
The Seagull EV, also known as the Dolphin Mini in certain markets, is currently available in countries like Mexico, Colombia, the Philippines, and Brazil. BYD is gearing up to introduce this affordable electric vehicle in Europe later this year under the name “Dolphin Surf,” with an anticipated starting price of under £20,000 ($26,000).
Designed by Wolfgang Egger, a renowned designer with experience at Lamborghini and Audi, the Seagull has earned the nickname “Mini Lamborghini” in China. Its compact dimensions, measuring 3,780 mm in length, 1,715 mm in width, and 1,540 mm in height, make it smaller than popular models like the Volkswagen ID.3.
The Seagull EV is offered in three trims in China: Vitality, Freedom, and Flying, with two battery pack options providing ranges of 305 km (190 miles) and 405 km (252 miles) CLTC range, respectively. S&P Global Mobility projects that BYD’s sales in Europe will double from 83,000 units in 2024 to 186,000 units in 2025, highlighting the company’s growing presence in the region.
Despite not being produced in Europe, the competitive pricing strategy of the Seagull ensures its viability in the EU market, even in the presence of tariffs. With BYD’s continued success and expansion into new markets, the Seagull EV is poised to maintain its popularity and position as a top-selling electric vehicle worldwide.
