BYD’s most affordable EV is about to get a ‘big’ sibling

This one's about a car, not a home upgrade, so it doesn't really touch your energy-efficiency plans. But here's the news in brief: Chinese automaker BYD is preparing to launch a bigger version of its cheap Seagull electric car, called the Great Seagull, before the end of 2026. The current Seagull sells in China for about $10,000 and is one of the best-selling EVs in the world. The new version will be longer and wider, with a more powerful motor, and is expected to use BYD's newer battery and fast-charging tech, plus a roof-mounted sensor for driver-assist features.

BYD hasn't said what the Great Seagull will cost, but since the current model starts around $10,000, the bigger one is expected to cost somewhat more. The company sells related versions of this car overseas under the names Dolphin Surf and Dolphin Mini, and it's expected to bring a larger version of those to markets outside China too, likely priced under $35,000 in Europe based on current Dolphin Surf pricing there.

None of this changes anything about home energy upgrades or rebates. If you're weighing an EV purchase alongside things like a heat pump or home charging setup, this is simply a sign that lower-cost small EVs are expanding overseas, though there's no word yet on U.S. availability or pricing.