The BYD Dolphin Mini, a compact electric hatch sold as Brasil, received a significant update in the Chinese market. The 2026 version of the model, known as Seagull in China, was introduced in Salão from Automóvel from Pequim with substantial improvements. The maximum range reached 505 kilometers in the CLTC test cycle, representing an increase of 100 kilometers compared to the previous generation. A specific variant now integrates roof-mounted LiDAR sensor for advanced driver assistance.
LiDAR sensor and God’s Eye B system enhance security capabilities
The roof-mounted LiDAR sensor is part of the driver assistance system called God’s Eye B, technology previously reserved for the brand’s more sophisticated models. The equipment allows precise mapping of the vehicle’s surroundings, facilitating functions such as automatic lane maintenance and emergency braking. The configuration also includes additional cameras installed on the front fenders for better visual coverage.
¡Bombazo de BYD! ⚡️ El nuevo Dolphin Surf se renueva:
🔋 +500 km de autonomía (CLTC)
👁️ Sistema 'God's Eye B' con LiDAR
📱 Mejor interior#BYD #DolphinSurf #EV pic.twitter.com/GaKkRU8mSR— ForoCochesEléctricos (@foroelectricos) April 26, 2026
Outras visual modifications complement the safety and comfort package. The windshield wipers became double, while the steering wheel received simplified buttons and specific flaps. At the rear, a small blue light marks the presence of the onboard technology. The wireless charger has been boosted to 50 watts with a dedicated ventilation outlet for cooling devices while charging.
- Porta-single cups in some finish configurations.
- Caixa armrest with tilting lid for better organization.
- Nova red paint option on the body, expanding personalization.
- 16-inch Rodas with 175/55 R16 tires as standard.
Esses refinements improve the overall finish without changing the compact’s external dimensions, maintaining the model’s characteristic practicality.
Autonomia increases 100 kilometers in Chinese test standard
The most concrete gain of the update lies in the increase in autonomy. The previous CLTC cycle indicated up to 405 kilometers, while the new version reaches 505 kilometers in the highest capacity configuration. The Chinese cycle tends to deliver more optimistic numbers than international standards such as the Inmetro or European WLTP. Especialistas estimate that the actual range in daily use is in the range of 340 to 400 kilometers, depending on weather conditions, traffic and driving style.
BYD has not revealed the exact capacity of the updated Blade LFP battery, but preliminary documents suggest a small increase in stored energy. The front electric motor delivers maximum power of 82 horsepower in the new version, maintaining front-wheel drive. Esse performance adequately meets urban use and small regional trips, the target audience for the entry segment.
Commercial Estratégia seeks differentiation in a competitive market
BYD positions the update as a way to raise the standard of compact electric cars in the Chinese market, where affordable hatchbacks face intense competition from local brands. The addition of advanced assistance technology and superior autonomy helps to differentiate the product in an increasingly competitive segment. The combination of competitive pricing with technological resources represents a clear strategy to consolidate leadership.
No Brasil, the current Dolphin Mini offers a range of approximately 280 kilometers according to the Inmetro standard with a battery capacity of approximately 38.8 kilowatt-hours. The model comes equipped with a 75 horsepower engine, six airbags, a 10.1-inch rotating screen and a price in the range of R$120,000 for the five-seater version. The manufacturer has not yet confirmed if or when the Chinese changes will reach the Brazilian market, which follows its own launch calendar.
Detalhes of finishing and practicality mark the aesthetic renovation
Além of technological innovations, the update brings aesthetic refinements that improve the user experience. The bodywork maintains the compact style that appeals in daily urban use, with LED headlights and taillights following the well-known design. The new red color expands the customization options available to consumers.
In the cabin, the focus remains on practicality and functionality. The most powerful wireless charger makes it easier to use smartphones on the go. Dedicated ventilation helps maintain adequate temperature during recharges, preventing devices from overheating. BYD relies on the e-Platform 3.0 platform to maintain safety and efficiency, with an Blade battery structure that reinforces protection against impacts and fires.
Mercado of electric compacts evolves with more technological resources
The arrival of this configuration reinforces the trend of bringing features previously reserved for larger cars to entry-level models. LiDAR allows precise mapping of the surroundings, while the God’s Eye B system uses this data to assist the driver in critical safety tasks. No Brasil, the electric hatch segment is still young, with the Dolphin Mini competing with combustion options in price and practicality.
BYD has led sales of 100% electric vehicles in the country for consecutive months, with the compact contributing significantly to this result by offering reduced ownership costs. Recarga at home or in public stations is more economical than traditional fuel. The Salão of Pequim served as a stage to showcase the potential of the upgrade, with visitors able to take a closer look at the car with the sensor on the roof. The brand is expected to reveal additional official figures in the coming weeks as it gets closer to commercial launch.
