Second-Generation BYD Seagull Aces 140 km/h Tire Blowout Test

The second-generation BYD Seagull electric hatchback has successfully completed a tire blowout test at a speed of 140 km/h in China. A video shared by BYD Ocean series general manager Zhang Zhuo shows the vehicle remaining completely stable and safely slowing down without drifting off course after a pre-installed device punctured its front right tire. Such advanced stability control tech is unusual for affordable entry-level cars starting at 65,900 yuan (9,880 USD), as it was previously reserved for more expensive Chinese EVs and plug-in hybrids.

The new BYD Seagull can also be equipped with a LiDAR-based God’s Eye (DiPilot 300) assisted driving system that supports autonomous parking and Navigate On Autopilot (NOA) for urban and highway driving. Measuring 4205/1810/1570 mm with a 2,650 mm wheelbase, the second-generation hatchback is 425 mm longer than the first-generation model. It is a rear-wheel-drive car offered with two e-motor variants delivering 85 kW (114 HP) and 95 kW (127 HP).

Buyers can choose between two LFP battery options with capacities of 30.1 and 39.2 kWh, providing a CLTC range between 320 and 420 km. The vehicle also supports flash charging from 10 to 97 percent in nine minutes. Inside, it features a 15.6-inch screen acting as the instrument panel, a 50W wireless phone charging pad, 127-color ambient lighting, eight speakers, a driver’s seat massage function, and a 94-liter front trunk. Pricing for the BYD Seagull ranges from 65,900 to 99,900 yuan (9,880 to 14,850 USD).