Introduction
The 2023 BYD Seagull is an electric car that offers an affordable option for buyers, with a starting price of 10 to 12,000 US dollars. Despite its low cost, the Seagull manages to provide a decent amount of storage space and a comfortable seating position. However, there are some drawbacks, such as cheap hard plastics in the interior and limited rear cargo space.
First Look
We had the opportunity to examine BYD’s new model, the BYD Seagull. As a reviewer of Chinese vehicles, I’ve noticed that our audience has a particular interest in fun and affordable little EVs. Not everyone needs a large, powerful electric SUV just for their daily errands. If you’re in that category, then this review is especially for you, because BYD’s goal with the Seagull is to offer a tiny EV that costs just $10,000 to $12,000.
Exterior
In terms of design, the Seagull takes a more aggressive approach compared to its competitors in this segment. It features hard angles and harsh LEDs, resembling a robot sidekick rather than a cute toy (to draw a dog metaphor). While some EVs in this segment, like the Wooling Bingo, go for a cute and friendly design, the Seagull stands out with its unique and intimidating appearance. Oddly enough, this attempt to look tough only makes the Seagull more adorable. The car measures 3.78 meters in length, making it more than 20 centimeters (8 inches) shorter than a Honda Fit.
Interior
Despite its small size, the Seagull’s wheelbase is only three centimeters (one inch) shorter. Inside, you have the option of a 30 or 39 kilowatt hour lithium iron phosphate blade battery pack. According to BYD, the Seagull can achieve a claimed CLTC range of either 305 or 405 kilometers, depending on the battery pack. Both options also offer fast charging, allowing the battery to go from 20 to 80 percent in just half an hour.
Price
It’s worth mentioning that there were rumors about the Seagull being available with a sodium battery, although it hasn’t been confirmed yet. If the sodium battery becomes a reality, it may offer even better performance. However, for now, we can only evaluate the ranges of the lithium iron phosphate units. It turns out that the advertised ranges were too optimistic, and I estimate the real-world range for the larger battery pack to be closer to 300 kilometers. While this is still a usable range for such a small and affordable car, it’s not as impressive as initially claimed.
Interior Design
The interior of the 2023 BYD Seagull offers various color options, including blue and black, green and black, and a unique Barbie-inspired design. As part of the ocean series, which also includes the BYD Dolphin and Seal, the Seagull’s interior design is the least ocean-inspired. This is perhaps due to cost considerations, as ocean-inspired design flourishes often come at an additional expense. However, one design element that stands out is the compact row of switches below the center screen, a feature that I particularly liked in the BYD Dolphin. This row includes a physical volume roller, air conditioning controls, hazard lights, and Auto hold, which is standard on the Seagull.
Driving Experience
The Seagull boasts an adorable little transmission knob located closest to the driver. By wiggling it up and down, you can easily change gears, and there’s a small button on the side to put the Seagull into Park. All three trim levels of the Seagull come with a 7-inch instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch spinnable center screen. While the interface is the same as every other BYD model, it may be a bit slower to react. Additionally, it’s important to note that there’s only one USB charging port in the entire car. However, on two out of three trims, the Seagull compensates for this by offering a wireless charging pad. Unfortunately, this wireless charging pad has proven to be slipperier than a used boat salesman. During spirited driving, the car encourages you to fling it into corners, but be warned – your phone may end up in a different zip code!
Specifications
While the interior design and driving experience are important aspects, let’s not forget about the specifications of the 2023 BYD Seagull. This electric car is packed with impressive features and capabilities. It is equipped with a powerful electric motor that offers excellent acceleration and a smooth driving experience. The Seagull also comes with advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. With a range of over 250 miles on a single charge, the Seagull is perfect for daily commuting and longer trips alike. It also supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly recharge the battery when needed. Overall, the Seagull’s specifications make it a compelling option in the electric car market.
Price
Now, let’s talk about the price of the 2023 BYD Seagull. As with any car, the price will vary depending on the trim level and optional features you choose. However, compared to other electric cars in its segment, the Seagull offers great value for money. It provides a combination of impressive performance, a comfortable interior, and advanced technology, all at a competitive price point. While the exact prices for each trim level have not been announced yet, based on BYD’s previous pricing strategy, the Seagull is expected to be priced competitively against its rivals.
Exterior Design
While much of our discussion has focused on the interior and driving experience, we cannot overlook the exterior design of the 2023 BYD Seagull. With sleek lines and a modern aesthetic, the Seagull stands out on the road. Its aer
Interior Features
Inside the Seagull, you’ll find cheap hard plastics, which are abundant throughout the cabin. However, there are some areas where soft touch materials are used, such as the center console and door. Surprisingly, the car doesn’t feel inappropriately cheap considering its low price. Despite its tiny size, the Seagull offers a decent amount of storage space. It has a storage cubby under the center console and a glove compartment. The center console appears to be able to open, but upon closer inspection, it was found that this was not the case.
One of the standout features of the Seagull’s interior is its seating position, which is incredibly comfortable for a car in this class. In fact, it outshines some much more expensive EVs in terms of comfort. The same can be said for the rear seating, which may be quite barren but offers ample leg and headroom.
Exterior Design and Cargo Space
The exterior design of the Seagull is sleek and modern, reflecting its status as an electric car. However, the rear cargo space is a disappointment. While still usable, it falls short of the impressive cargo area found in the BYD Bingo. If you’re planning a big trip to the grocery store, you’ll need to lay down the rear seats to create more space.
Safety Concerns
One important question that may arise is how safe the Seagull is. Many tiny electric cars lack proper safety equipment, making driving them feel like a risky endeavor. However, the Seagull ensures a certain level of safety. While it may not have an extensive range of safety features, it provides some basic protection for its occupants.
Driving Dynamics
Before discussing the driving dynamics of the Seagull, it’s worth noting that this car falls into the class of tiny EVs. These vehicles are not known for their impressive driving experiences. However, the Seagull manages to offer a satisfactory driving experience for its price range. It may not provide a sporty or exhilarating ride, but it gets the job done.
The Safety Technology
The 2023 BYD Seagull is not only an electric car that delivers on performance, but it also prioritizes safety. Equipped with standard driver and passenger front airbags, side curtain airbags, and front and rear airbags, the Seagull ensures that all occupants are protected in case of a collision. In addition, the top-spec model comes with front row side airbags and an optional driver assistance package, which includes features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. These safety specs surpass those of its competitors, offering peace of mind to drivers and passengers alike.
Driving Dynamics
While the Seagull excels in safety, it truly stands out in terms of driving dynamics. Many other tiny EVs in its class may offer practicality at a low price, but they often lack the engaging driving experience. However, the Seagull shatters this stereotype. Unlike its counterparts, such as the Wooling Bingo, which feels like driving a golf cart with loosely connected steering, the Seagull provides a more direct and responsive steering feel. It shares the same type of suspension as the Bingo, with a McPherson strut front and torsion beam rear, but the Seagull boasts a wider front and rear track. As a result, it feels incredibly planted and agile on the road, encouraging drivers to tackle corners with confidence.
Fun Factor
Despite the Seagull’s modest power output of 55 kilowatts and 135 newton meters of torque (equivalent to 75 horsepower and 100 pound-feet), it offers an unexpectedly enjoyable driving experience. In fact, it surpasses more powerful and expensive electric vehicles in terms of sheer fun behind the wheel. With its nimbleness and agility, the Seagull has provided more excitement during my time with it than any other EV I’ve driven this year.
Tire Limitation
Although the Seagull impresses with its handling capabilities, there is one notable weakness: the bargain basement tires. These tires tend to squeal in protest even with minimal lateral g-forces. However, this is a small flaw that can be easily addressed by replacing them with higher-quality tires. By doing so, the Seagull would truly unleash its full potential and become a thrilling ride on any road.
In conclusion, the 2023 BYD Seagull proves to be more than just an electric car. It offers advanced safety technology, exceptional driving dynamics, and an unmatched level of fun in its class. With its attractive price point and impressive capabilities, the Seagull is set to make its mark in the electric vehicle market. So, buckle up and prepare to be amazed as you take the wheel of the exhilarating BYD Seagull.
First Look: BYD Seagull 2023
The BYD Seagull 2023 is an electric car that captures the special charm of feisty subcompacts. While it may not be the most powerful or fastest car in its segment, it encourages and rewards drivers for pushing their limits through corners. This electric car is all about the driving experience and the pure joy it brings.
Specs and Features
The BYD Seagull 2023 may be small and affordable, but it still packs some impressive features. One notable feature is the adaptive cruise control, which adds convenience to your driving experience. However, it’s important to note that the car’s noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels increase at higher speeds. At 80 kilometers per hour, you’ll find yourself wondering if you left a window open due to the increased noise. And if you push it to 120 kilometers per hour, the four-speaker sound system struggles to compete with the wind and tire noise, making headphones a better alternative.
Price
Being a small and affordable car, the BYD Seagull is an enticing option for those looking to go electric without breaking the bank. While the exact pricing details haven’t been released yet, it is expected to be competitively priced within its segment. Keep an eye out for further updates on the pricing of this exciting electric vehicle.
Interior and Exterior Design
The BYD Seagull 2023’s interior and exterior design are focused on functionality and efficiency. While it may not boast luxurious features, it offers a comfortable driving experience. The cabin is designed to maximize space, ensuring that even though it’s a small car, passengers can still enjoy a decent amount of legroom and headspace. It’s the perfect choice for city driving or commuting.
Driving Enjoyment
What sets the BYD Seagull 2023 apart from other vehicles in this segment is the level of driving enjoyment it offers. Finally, there’s a fun-to-drive electric vehicle in this category. However, one can’t help but daydream about what it would be like if it had a slightly more powerful front motor, upgraded suspension and brakes, and better tires. A BYD Seagull GTI version with these enhancements would surely provide an incredible amount of fun and excitement. Let’s hope BYD takes note of this potential and brings it to life.
Overall, the BYD Seagull 2023 is an impressive electric car that offers an enjoyable driving experience. While it has its limitations, such as NVH concerns and a lack of high-end features, it compensates with its charm and affordability. If you’re in the market for an electric subcompact that brings joy to your daily commute, the BYD Seagull 2023 is definitely worth considering.
Thank you for reading and stay tuned for more updates on the BYD Seagull 2023.
2023 BYD Seagull: A First Look at this Electric Car
Introducing the much-awaited 2023 BYD Seagull, an electric car that is set to revolutionize the automobile industry. With its sleek design and advanced features, this car is sure to catch the attention of both eco-conscious consumers and car enthusiasts alike.
Impressive Specs
The 2023 BYD Seagull boasts an impressive set of specifications that are bound to leave you in awe. Equipped with a powerful electric motor, this car offers an exceptional driving experience. Its acceleration is smooth and swift, making it a joy to drive on any road.
Additionally, the Seagull comes with a long-lasting battery that ensures you can travel long distances without worry. With its fast-charging capabilities, you can recharge the battery in a short amount of time, allowing you to get back on the road quickly.
Price
Despite its cutting-edge features, the 2023 BYD Seagull comes at a surprisingly affordable price. This makes it an excellent choice for those who are in the market for an electric car but don’t want to break the bank.
Not only is the initial price of the Seagull reasonable, but the cost of running this vehicle is also significantly lower compared to traditional gasoline-powered cars. With the rising costs of fuel, owning an electric car like the Seagull is not only environmentally friendly but also cost-efficient in the long run.
Interior
The interior of the 2023 BYD Seagull exudes luxury and sophistication. With its plush seats and high-quality materials, you’ll feel like you’re sitting in a first-class cabin. The cabin is spacious and comfortably accommodates both the driver and passengers.
Moreover, the Seagull is equipped with state-of-the-art technology features that are designed to make your driving experience seamless and enjoyable. From an intuitive infotainment system to advanced safety features, this car caters to all your needs.
Exterior
The exterior design of the 2023 BYD Seagull is a perfect blend of elegance and aerodynamic efficiency. Its sleek lines and modern aesthetics make it stand out from the crowd. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the car’s exterior, making it a sight to behold.
Not only is the Seagull visually appealing, but it is also designed to be environmentally friendly. Its smooth surface and streamlined shape reduce drag, enhancing the car’s overall efficiency and reducing energy consumption.
In conclusion, the 2023 BYD Seagull is an electric car that offers a remarkable driving experience. With its impressive specifications, affordable price, luxurious interior, and striking exterior, this car is undoubtedly worth considering for anyone in the market for an electric vehicle. So why wait? Take a closer look at the Seagull and experience the future of driving.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2023 BYD Seagull is an intriguing addition to the affordable EV market. With its aggressive design and promising range, it is a compelling choice for those looking for a small and budget-friendly electric car. Despite some discrepancies between the advertised and real-world ranges, the Seagull still offers a usable range for daily commuting. Overall, this tiny EV has the potential to make a big impact on the market.
In summary, the 2023 BYD Seagull is an affordable electric car that offers decent interior features and a comfortable seating position. However, its cheap plastics and limited rear cargo space are drawbacks. Safety concerns are addressed to some extent, and the driving experience is satisfactory for an EV in this class. Overall, the Seagull provides an appealing option for buyers on a budget who are looking to go electric.
