BYD SEAGULL/DOLPHIN MINI Named 2025 World Urban Car at New York International Auto Show
In a landmark moment for the automotive world, the BYD SEAGULL/DOLPHIN MINI has been named the 2025 World Urban Car at the prestigious World Car Awards, held on 16 April 2025 during the New York International Auto Show. The win marks a historic first for China, as BYD becomes the first-ever Chinese automaker to take home a World Car Awards title.
Selected from a shortlist of 11 elite contenders representing the pinnacle of urban mobility design and innovation, the SEAGULL/DOLPHIN MINI stood out to the 96 international jurors for its bold aesthetic, agile performance, and universal appeal in an increasingly urbanised world.
A Win Beyond the Trophy
The award is far more than a symbol of design or performance excellence—it’s a powerful validation of BYD’s growing leadership in the global new energy vehicle (NEV) sector. Known for its commitment to electric mobility and cutting-edge technology, BYD has been expanding its presence across key international markets, capturing both sales momentum and consumer admiration.
“This achievement reflects our commitment to providing sustainable technologies and exceptional service to customers worldwide,” said Stella Li, Executive Vice President of BYD. “We are incredibly proud and honored that the BYD SEAGULL/DOLPHIN MINI has been recognized as the World Urban Car. At BYD, we are dedicated to accelerating green mobility and contributing to the global effort to ‘Cool the Earth by 1 °C’.”
Compact, Smart, and Ready for the Future
Inspired by BYD’s Ocean Aesthetics design language, the SEAGULL/DOLPHIN MINI delivers a youthful, refreshing presence that resonates with a wide range of global consumers. But it’s more than just eye-catching—it’s engineered for the real-world demands of modern city life. The vehicle’s high safety standards, intelligent driving features, and cost-effective electric performance have made it a regular chart-topper in numerous markets.
Its compact dimensions, intelligent packaging, and agile handling make it particularly well-suited for urban environments, where the balance between size, performance, and sustainability is critical.
Recognition That Builds on Momentum
This isn’t the first time BYD has caught the eye of the World Car Awards jury. In 2024, the BYD DOLPHIN reached the top three for the same category, while the BYD SEAL was shortlisted as one of the top three finalists for the World Car of the Year—making BYD the only Chinese automaker to achieve that distinction.
Now, with the SEAGULL/DOLPHIN MINI’s victory, BYD not only solidifies its reputation as an innovation powerhouse but also sends a strong message: Chinese automotive brands are no longer emerging contenders—they’re global leaders.
Eyes on a Greener Horizon
As BYD continues to grow its international footprint, the brand remains rooted in its mission to create sustainable, technologically advanced mobility solutions for the masses. With the World Urban Car title now under its belt, BYD is poised to accelerate its role as a global trailblazer in green transportation.
The SEAGULL/DOLPHIN MINI may be compact in size, but its victory represents a seismic shift in the global auto industry—a future where smart, sustainable, and stylish urban mobility isn’t just a dream, but a reality that’s made in China.
