BYD Seagull EV Below $21,500 Price Tag: Defines Luxury Within Reach in European Markets

May 26, 2024 09:59 PM EDT

YELLOW COMPACT CAR — (Photo : AI IMAGE/DABBIE DAVIS)

The renowned BYD Seagull, named the BYD Dolphin Mini in Mexico, is scheduled to arrive in Europe next year at a price below $21,500. Thus, posting tougher competition for existing EV brands in the market.

BYD Below $21,500 Seagull EV

Affordable electric cars originating from China are swiftly making their way into the European market, disrupting one of the region's major industries. BYD, surpassing Tesla in global EV production towards the end of last year, is poised to intensify the competition.

Moreover, it is gearing up to introduce its most affordable electric vehicle in Europe next year. Prior to its official launch, the $10K Seagull EV from BYD is generating considerable interest among international competitors.

In fact, BYD is experiencing a series of successes. This year, it unveiled its most economical EV, the Seagull Honor Edition. As per ViewusGlobal, BYD's Seagull EV, priced at $10,000 in China, will come equipped with BYD's 30.08kWh and 38.88kWh LFP Blade batteries, offering driving ranges of 190 miles and 252 miles, respectively, following the CLTC standard.

The Seagull EV was affectionately dubbed the Mini Lamborghini during the leadership of Wolfgang Egger, a former Lamborghini designer on the project. Its interior showcases a sleek 10.1-inch rotating center screen for interactive media play through DiLink's smart network.

Sold overseas as the Dolphin Mini, the Seagull EV is available for approximately $20,000 in Brazil and $19,800 in Mexico. Expanding its offerings, BYD presents the BYD Seagull in a range of options in China. The introductory variant, known as the (Active) model, enters the market below $10,000 (69,800 yuan).

Moving up the spectrum, the Free trim kicks off at $10,500 (75,800 yuan), while the premium Flying model commands a price tag of $12,000 (85,800 yuan) for enthusiasts seeking top-tier features. This diverse lineup caters to varying preferences and budgets, showcasing BYD's commitment to providing choice and value in their product range.

As per Electrek's report, BYD is preparing for the European market by launching the BYD Seagull EV, which aims to rival top manufacturers like Stellantis and VW within their own domain. BYD plans to price the Seagull below $21, 500 or 20,000 Euros in order to position it competitively against its competitors, even in the event of anticipated tariffs.

Under the direction of European Managing Director Michael Shu, BYD has even higher goals in mind. They intend to launch a high-end electric vehicle that will set you back $27,000 euros, or 25,000 euros. Furthermore, as part of its strategic goals to counteract any potential detrimental effects of EU tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles, BYD maintains two manufacturing facilities in the region.

Seagull's Success Begins

TechCentral reported the Seagull has received acclaim for its construction quality, design, and technological innovations that BYD has included at an affordable price point. This success is not a singular occurrence: as revealed by European MD Michael Shu at a recent industry gathering in London.

The company intends to launch a premium €25,000 EV before the compact city car. BYD's strategic establishment of two manufacturing facilities in the region is poised to mitigate any potential impacts of EU tariffs aimed at impeding its progress.

This model is already making waves internationally. In Mexico, the 358,800 peso (R360,000) vehicle has garnered significant interest among drivers since its debut in February, despite the nascent state of the charging infrastructure.

Furthermore, at an event in the capital last week, BYD Executive Vice President Stella Li expressed that Mexico presented initial challenges but ultimately revealed a significant level of demand and enthusiasm for their products. This sentiment was shared during the unveiling of a plug-in hybrid bakkie tailored for the Mexican market.