BYD Launches ‘Seagull’ Compact EV in Japan with Sub-2 Million Yen Pricing

Chinese automaker BYD has introduced its ‘Seagull’ compact electric vehicle to the Japanese market, undercutting local competitors with a starting price of 1.98 million yen. This five-door hatchback, equipped with a 44.9 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery, delivers 310 kilometers of WLTP range in its base rear-wheel-drive configuration. Deliveries commence in January 2026 from BYD’s Shenzhen headquarters, targeting urban commuters amid Japan’s 2035 internal combustion engine phase-out.

The ‘Seagull’ employs BYD’s Blade Battery technology for enhanced thermal stability, supporting DC fast charging from 10% to 80% in 29 minutes at up to 55 kW. Power comes from a single 70 kW electric motor producing 135 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 12.7 seconds. Dimensions measure 3,780 mm in length, 1,715 mm in width, and 1,500 mm in height, with a 2,500 mm wheelbase accommodating four passengers and 340 liters of cargo space.

Chassis components include MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear, paired with 185/65 R15 tires on 15-inch alloys. Aerodynamic efficiency achieves a 0.30 drag coefficient through flush door handles and underbody panels. Safety features encompass six airbags, electronic stability control, and BYD’s DiLink infotainment system on a 10.1-inch rotating touchscreen, integrating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Higher trims add a 130 kW motor for 405 km range and 7.7-second 0-100 km/h time, priced at 2.48 million yen. BYD projects 5,000 annual units in Japan initially, leveraging a new Tokyo showroom and service network with 20 outlets by 2027. The launch coincides with Japan’s EV market share reaching 4.2% in Q3 2025, up from 2.1% in 2024.

This entry challenges the ‘Nissan Sakura’ at 2.39 million yen and ‘Mitsubishi eK X EV’ at 2.27 million yen, both offering similar 180 km ranges. BYD’s vertical integration reduces costs by 18% over rivals, per company data, with local assembly planned at a Gunma facility by 2028 to qualify for subsidies. Japanese dealers report 1,200 pre-orders within 48 hours of announcement.

Environmental claims highlight zero tailpipe emissions and recyclable battery content exceeding 95%. The ‘Seagull’ complies with Japan’s JC08 cycle for efficiency ratings of 6.9 km/kWh. Fleet applications target delivery services, where total ownership costs project 25% below equivalent ‘Kei’ cars over 60,000 km.

Regulatory hurdles cleared include type approval under the Road Vehicles Act, with ongoing tests for winter performance in Hokkaido. BYD’s global sales hit 3.1 million EVs in 2025, with Japan marking its 15th export market. This move intensifies competition in the subcompact segment, valued at 450,000 units annually in Japan.