BYD, a leading Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has introduced the Seagull, a compact electric vehicle, to the markets of Brazil and Mexico. This marks the arrival of BYD’s most affordable model in South America.
The Seagull, part of BYD’s Ocean series, joins the Seal and Dolphin models in the Brazilian and Mexican markets, expanding the company’s footprint in Latin America. BYD plans to introduce the Seagull in additional Latin American markets in the future.
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In Brazil and Mexico, the Seagull is known as the Dolphin Mini, positioned as a slightly more budget-friendly alternative to the Dolphin model in the Ocean lineup.
BYD’s vehicle lineup features the Ocean series, inspired by marine life and ships, and the Dynasty series, named after Chinese dynasties.
The Seagull made its debut on April 26, 2023, in China, where it is offered in three versions priced starting from RMB 73,800 ($10,250). The two lower-priced versions offer a range of 305 kilometers on the CLTC cycle, while the highest-priced version boasts a range of 405 kilometers.
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BYD recently introduced the Qin Plus Glory Edition and the Chaser 05 Glory Edition, priced at RMB 79,800, just slightly higher than the Seagull.
In Mexico, the Seagull is available in two versions with NEDC ranges of 300 kilometers and 380 kilometers, starting at 358,800 Mexican pesos ($21,100). Meanwhile, in Brazil, only one version of the Seagull is offered, featuring an NEDC range of 380 kilometers and capable of rapid charging from 30 percent to 80 percent in just 30 minutes.
Tyler Li, general manager of BYD Brazil, noted that the Dolphin made a significant impact on the Brazilian automotive market upon its launch, and the Seagull is expected to continue this trend as a compelling new offering.
The Seagull has been a strong seller for BYD, with 280,217 units sold in 2023, contributing 9 percent to the company’s total sales of 3,024,417 units. In February, BYD sold 122,311 new energy vehicles (NEVs), with the Seagull being the fourth-highest-selling model at 13,492 units.
BYD is riding the new wave of e-mobility with the launch of the BYD DOLPHIN MINI in Brazil and Mexico! They're transforming urban travel with innovative technology, high energy efficiency, and playful design. #BYD #BuildYourDreams pic.twitter.com/riFaLzI0mc
— BYD Global (@BYDGlobal) March 4, 2024
