BYD, the prominent Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, has announced its ambitious plans to expand its presence in the European market. Stella Li, company vice-president, stated in an interview with AFP that the company anticipates a significant increase in European registrations beginning in March or April. BYD is making a strategic push into Europe, including sponsorships and new showroom openings.
The company plans to introduce its compact Seagull model, which will be rebranded as the Dolphin Surf in Europe. This model is designed to compete with vehicles like the Renault 5 and Citroen C3, with an expected launch around mid-year, according to Li.
In a recent development in China, BYD unveiled a new charging system promising rapid charging capabilities. This technology is capable of providing drivers with a range of 470 kilometers (approximately 300 miles) after only a five-minute charge. This is four times faster than the current leading systems. Li highlighted the speed, stating, “It is really as fast as refuelling a petrol car.” The company is preparing to bring this advanced technology to Europe in the coming years.
BYD reported that its exports doubled in the first two months of 2025 compared to the previous year, reaching 130,000 vehicles. Worldwide sales in 2024 totaled 4.2 million, positioning BYD as the sixth-largest car manufacturer globally.
The European Union has imposed a 17% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles due to state subsidies provided by China. Despite these restrictions, Li emphasized that “will not change BYD’s plan because BYD is like a long-term player.”
Furthermore, EU authorities are reportedly investigating BYD’s initial European factory, located in Hungary, where electric car production is scheduled to commence later this year. Li assured that the company will “be very transparent, very open, working with anybody who wants to do an investigation.”
