Leaked images of the next generation of the BYD Dolphin Mini, released in China, show a significant change in the vehicle's interior. The most notable change is not what has been added, but what has been removed: the manufacturer's entry-level hatchback will no longer have a traditional instrument panel, transferring all driving information to the central screen.
The photographs were made available by the website 3YC User Report and subsequently reproduced by the portal CarNewsChina. This is the first record of the cabin of the model, which is marketed in China under the name Seagull and known as Dolphin Surf and Atto 1 in other markets. BYD itself has not officially confirmed any details about this renewal.
One of the main visible innovations is the new design of the center console, which now features two levels and an inclined shape. This configuration provides more free height in the lower compartment, creating a useful space for accommodating bulky items, a relevant detail for daily use in urban environments. Above this console is the multimedia screen, and the dashboard retains a series of physical buttons located below the central air vents.
The steering wheel has also been revised, receiving angular-shaped buttons, while the seats have been enhanced with red trim on the side supports, contrasting with the navy blue color scheme used by BYD in the Ocean line. There is no available information regarding possible improvements in the resolution or processing of the multimedia unit.
Dimensional and mechanical specifications had already been revealed in July through records from the MIIT, the Chinese ministry of industry, a mandatory pre-launch document. The car now measures 4.21 meters in length, 1.81 meters in width, and 1.57 meters in height, with a wheelbase of 2.65 meters, representing a 15-centimeter increase compared to the current model. The total curb weight is between 1,180 kg and 1,255 kg, and all listed versions use 205/60 R16 tires, which are wider than the current 165 and 175.
The front electric motor's performance has been boosted to 129 horsepower, an increase of 54 hp compared to the most powerful version currently sold in China. The maximum speed reaches 150 km/h. The LFP battery will be supplied by Shaoxing FinDreams, a subsidiary of BYD itself, although the MIIT has not disclosed its capacity or range. The model continues to use the 400V architecture and does not support the brand's ultra-fast charging standard.
This renewal occurs during a period of market share loss. According to data from China EV DataTracker, BYD registered sales of 8,879 units of the Seagull in the Chinese market during July. Despite being the absolute sales leader in the country, the model was overtaken by competitors such as Geely EX2 and Leapmotor B03X. Elements like LiDAR may be crucial in the attempt to reposition the hatchback in the competition.
In Brazil, the Dolphin Mini is recognized as the best-selling electric vehicle and the pioneer in national assembly, being produced at the Camaçari factory in Bahia. The current version has 75 hp and its initial price is approximately R$ 119 thousand.
