New BYD Dolphin Surf set for rear-wheel-drive second generation

With the affordable electric car segment becoming increasingly competitive, BYD appears to be preparing an updated version of its contender in this part of the market.

Known as the Seagull in China, the model sold in Europe as the Dolphin Surf is nearing a second generation whose changes are set to extend well beyond styling.

The first images of the new model, released in China, reveal revised bodywork, although some of the most significant developments sit beneath the exterior.

Rear-wheel drive replaces front-wheel drive

The most important change concerns the mechanical layout: the electric motor has moved from the front axle to the rear, making the Seagull a rear-wheel-drive model.

Rear-wheel drive is not the only technical development. The current Dolphin Seagull sold in China uses a front-mounted electric motor producing 55 kW (75 hp).

For the next generation, details listed in filings from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) indicate an output of 95 kW, or 129 hp.

It is worth noting that in Portugal, the Dolphin Surf is offered with two power outputs: 65 kW (88 hp) and 115 kW (156 hp).

As for the batteries, the model is expected to use 30 and 39.2 kWh packs, providing a range of between 320 and 420 km under the CLTC cycle. In Europe, the first generation is fitted with 30 or 42.3 kWh batteries and delivers up to 322 km of WLTP range.

Relocating the motor also frees up space at the front, creating an extra storage compartment, or “frunk”.

A longer BYD Dolphin Surf

The new model is also expected to be longer than the current generation, measuring 4.205 metres long, 1.81 metres wide and 1.57 metres high, with a 2.65-metre wheelbase.

That represents an increase of 20 centimetres in overall length and 15 centimetres in wheelbase compared with the existing model’s 3.990-metre length and 2.50-metre wheelbase.

The larger dimensions should create more room in the cabin, with the possibility of seating increasing from the current four occupants to five, although this has not been officially confirmed. Boot capacity has yet to be disclosed as well.

Inside, the second generation moves away from some features used by the current version in favour of a more contemporary layout. Visible details include a flat-bottomed, two-spoke steering wheel, a floating central display and physical controls positioned below the air vents. The instrument cluster is also expected to be removed.

When will it arrive?

Although it was unveiled in China under the Seagull name, all signs suggest this will form the basis for the next-generation European BYD Dolphin Surf.

However, the manufacturer has not confirmed when the new generation will go on sale in Europe, or whether the Chinese technical specification will be adopted in full for this market. Pricing is not yet known either.

In addition, while several test vehicles have been seen with a LiDAR module fitted to the roof, it remains unconfirmed whether this technology will be included in the European range.