Chinese automotive giant BYD is actively searching for suitable locations in France, Spain, and Germany to establish its first electric car manufacturing plant in Europe. While BYD has not disclosed a preferred choice among these countries, it has made it clear that the United Kingdom has been excluded from consideration.
A spokesperson from BYD informed CarNewsChina that the company is currently evaluating various potential sites for its European electric car plant. Brexit played a role in the decision to eliminate the UK as an option. The final location for the plant will be determined later this year. Notably, discussions have taken place with French officials, indicating their interest in hosting the BYD plant. Insiders have also mentioned that Spain and Germany are being considered, although specific regions or locations within these countries have not been specified.
BYD’s manager, Stella Li, revealed in December 2022 that the Chinese manufacturer was planning to establish at least one, and possibly two, passenger car plants on the European continent. Reports in January indicated that BYD was in negotiations with Ford regarding the potential purchase of Ford’s Saarlouis plant in Germany. However, it remains uncertain whether Saarlouis is one of the German locations actively being considered by BYD. CarNewsChina refers to other sources suggesting that BYD’s European strategy leans towards building new plants rather than acquiring existing facilities.
BYD already has a history in France, where it operated an electric bus plant. However, production at the facility ceased in November 2021 due to insufficient demand. Despite the closure, BYD expressed its intention to remain engaged in the French market.
In the past year, BYD introduced three electric car models in select European countries, including Germany. Spain, another potential location for the new plant, witnessed BYD’s entry into the market during the spring, with the launch of two electric car models. Later this year, BYD plans to introduce two additional models, namely the Dolphin compact car and the Seal electric sedan, in Europe.
BYD’s expansion strategy extends beyond Europe, as the company ventures into new countries, establishing not only car sales but also new manufacturing facilities worldwide. In April of this year, Chilean authorities announced that BYD intends to construct a battery material factory in Chile. Furthermore, BYD has commenced the construction of an electric car plant in Thailand, set to begin operations in 2024. Plans for additional factories in Vietnam are also underway, while discussions with the Philippines and Indonesia regarding similar prospects are reportedly ongoing, according to CarNewsChina.
