BYD's cheapest EV that goes for $10K in China is launching in Europe but with a completely different name

  • BYD is bringing its hit EV, the Seagull, to Europe
  • It’s coming over with a new name and new technology
  • The EV is BYD’s top seller and is the most popular vehicle in China

Published on Mar 20, 2025 at 5:19 PM (UTC+4)
by Daisy Edwards

Last updated on Mar 21, 2025 at 11:52 AM (UTC+4)
Edited by Emma Matthews

BYD's cheapest EV that goes for $10K in China is launching in Europe but with a completely different name

European EV drivers will be pleased to hear BYD’s cheapest EV – which retails for $10K – in China is finally launching in Europe, but it’s coming overseas with a completely different name.

It’s not clear as to why the Chinese car manufacturer is changing the BYD Seagull to the BYD Dolphin Surf in Europe, but the move also comes with a few bits of added tech for safety and more.

Although the Seagull is the cheapest EV on the market in China, it will be slightly more expensive in the EU, but BYD still thinks the Dolphin Surf will be the best value EV on the European market.

The BYD Seagull gained the nickname ‘mini Lamborghini’ as its lead designer is a former Lamborghini employee, and the budget EV comes with a hi-tech system and navigation support.

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BYD’s cheapest EV from China is swimming overseas

Later this year, BYD’s cheapest EV which goes for $10K in China is launching in Europe. But it’ll not only have a brand new name, it’ll also have advanced new safety tech.

The BYD Seagull launched in 2023 and immediately became the top-selling vehicle in China, surpassing even the Tesla Model Y.

BYD has been making breakthroughs with their extremely popular and well-selling vehicles, but their tech development has also been flying recently, with the development of their brand new super-fast EV charger.

Different name, same high level of quality

It’s unclear why, but BYD will be changing the name of their Seagull to Dolphin Surf when it makes its way to Europe.

The Dolphin Surf will sell for around $26,000 there, which would beat out a lot of rivals. But there are EVs like the Dacia Spring which are slightly cheaper.

BYD believes its bringing the best value options, though.

The car comes with the company’s answer to Tesla’s FSD – for free – as well as a swiveling infotainment center and DiLink intelligent network connection.

The Dolphin Surf has even gained the nickname of ‘mini Lamborghini‘ due to the lead designer on the project being a former designer at the Italian marque.

We can’t wait to see this little car hit the European EV market and shake it up.

Daisy is a technology journalist, covering artificial intelligence, consumer tech, Apple news, cryptocurrency, digital business, and emerging technologies. Since joining the team in 2025, she has reported on everything from AI-powered startups and major iOS updates to viral tech hacks and the latest developments in the digital economy. Drawing on her background in automotive journalism and a degree in History and Journalism from Goldsmiths, University of London, Daisy specializes in breaking down complex technology stories into clear, engaging reporting for a global audience. Her work focuses on the products, platforms, and innovations that are transforming the way people work, communicate, and interact with technology. Daisy has gained first-hand access to some of the world's most talked-about technologies and innovators, including meeting Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot during its first European appearance in London. She has also discussed the future of space exploration with an astronaut, bringing unique insights and real-world perspectives to her coverage of emerging technology.