TL;DR
Chinese automaker BYD plans to add roof-mounted LiDAR to lower-cost versions of the Seagull (Atto 1) and Dolphin, according to CNC. The updated cars are reported to include an expanded sensor suite and could broaden access to more advanced driver assistance features.
What happened
Reports from CNC indicate BYD has secured approval for versions of its Seagull (sold as the Atto 1 in Australia) and Dolphin hatchback that include a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor. The two models are said to be fitted with an expanded perception package: a dozen cameras, multiple ultrasonic sensors, and five millimetre-wave radars alongside the new LiDAR unit. Roof-mounted LiDAR has previously been observed on higher-priced BYD and other EV models, typically those above A$25,000 in international markets; its introduction to lower-cost models marks a move toward putting the sensor into mass-market cars. The addition may enable Navigate on Autopilot (NOA)-style highway and urban assisted-driving features, the report suggests. BYD’s Seagull has sold more than one million units in under three years, and the Atto 1’s Australia pre-orders opened in November with prices confirmed below A$24,000 in December. Currently, no BYD vehicle on sale in Australia features LiDAR.
Why it matters
- Introducing LiDAR to sub-A$25,000 models could accelerate broader adoption of higher-grade ADAS in mass-market EVs.
- A richer sensor suite may allow more capable assisted-driving functionality such as NOA on highways and urban roads.
- If rolled out internationally, the change could push competing makers to add LiDAR or otherwise upgrade perception systems.
- Wider availability of LiDAR-equipped vehicles could influence regulatory and consumer expectations around assisted driving.
Key facts
- Source: CNC report (as cited in the article).
- Models reported to get LiDAR: BYD Seagull (Atto 1 in Australia) and BYD Dolphin hatchback.
- Reported sensor package: 12 cameras, about a dozen ultrasonic sensors, five millimetre-wave radars and a roof-mounted LiDAR.
- Roof-mounted LiDAR has previously been seen on models priced above A$25,000; the new variants are aimed below that threshold.
- BYD’s Seagull has sold over one million units in under three years.
- Atto 1 pre-orders in Australia opened in November; prices were confirmed under A$24,000 in December.
- Atto 1 variants: Essentials (30 kWh battery, ~220 km WLTP) and Premium (43.2 kWh battery, ~310 km WLTP).
- The Atto 1’s Australian specification initially did not include the camera suite used in the latest Chinese ADAS versions.
- As of the report, no BYD model in Australia features LiDAR sensors.
What to watch next
- Whether BYD will offer the LiDAR-equipped variants in Australia and the timetable for any local deliveries — not confirmed in the source.
- If the LiDAR-equipped Seagull/Dolphin will include Navigate on Autopilot (NOA) or similar functionality as standard — not confirmed in the source.
- Regulatory approvals and market roll-out beyond China and Australia; the report suggests possible expansion to dozens of countries in the next 12 months but specifics are not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- LiDAR: A sensor system that uses laser light to measure distances and map surroundings, often used to improve vehicle perception for driver assistance.
- ADAS: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems: electronic systems that assist drivers with functions such as lane keeping, adaptive cruise control and automated braking.
- NOA (Navigate on Autopilot): A term used for linked highway and urban assisted-driving features that can control steering, acceleration and lane changes under certain conditions.
- WLTP: Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure: a standardized test cycle used to estimate range and efficiency for passenger cars.
Reader FAQ
Which BYD models are reported to get LiDAR?
The Seagull (Atto 1 in Australia) and the Dolphin hatchback are reported to have LiDAR-equipped versions.
Are LiDAR-equipped BYD cars already on sale in Australia?
No BYD product in the Australian market currently features LiDAR, according to the article.
Will these cars come with Navigate on Autopilot (NOA)?
The report says the addition of LiDAR could enable NOA-style functions, but whether NOA will be included as standard is not confirmed in the source.
When will LiDAR-equipped variants be available internationally?
The article suggests the technology could spread to dozens of countries within 12 months, but exact rollout schedules are not confirmed in the source.
COMMENTS BYD’s cheapest electric cars to have LiDAR self-driving tech 11 JANUARY 2026NO COMMENTS2 MINUTE READRIZ AKHTAR IMAGE: BYD INDONESIA SHARE TWEET SHARE SHARE Chinese car giant BYD has reportedly…
Sources
- BYD's cheapest electric cars to have Lidar self-driving tech
- BYD's $10000 Seagull EV to feature LiDAR, filing shows
- BYD entry-level hatchbacks to feature LiDAR sensors in …
- BYD to Equip Entry-Level Hatchbacks with LiDAR in China
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