BYD’s second-generation Seagull remained on a straight path during a high-speed tire-loss test in China. A device fitted to the front-right wheel punctured the tire after the car reached 140 km/h, causing it to lose its air rapidly. The car stayed stable as it slowed, according to a video shared by Zhang Zhu, general manager of BYD’s Ocean series. The result reflects this particular test and does not guarantee the same outcome in every tire failure.
The Seagull is priced from 65,900 to 99,900 yuan in China. It is a compact, rear-wheel-drive electric hatchback measuring 4.205 metres long, 1.810 metres wide and 1.570 metres tall, with a 2.650-metre wheelbase. The article says it is 42.5 centimetres longer than its predecessor, which was also sold under names including Dolphin Mini, Dolphin Surf and Atto 1.
Buyers can choose electric motors rated at 114 or 127 horsepower and LFP batteries with capacities of 30.1 or 39.2 kWh. The stated CLTC range is 320 to 420 km. BYD says charging from 10% to 97% takes nine minutes. Available equipment includes lidar-based driver assistance with automated parking and navigation-assisted driving on urban roads and highways; the system still requires driver supervision. Cabin features include a 15.6-inch display, a 50-watt wireless phone charger and a 94-litre front trunk.