BYD, one of China’s leading new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturers, is set to introduce additional models in Japan as part of its continued global expansion. According to local media outlet 36kr, BYD plans to bring its 7-seat Tang SUV to the Japanese market, further diversifying its product offerings in the country.
The Tang SUV, BYD’s flagship model, will become the fourth vehicle the company has launched in Japan, following the introduction of a compact SUV, a mini vehicle, and a sedan. Additionally, BYD’s popular Han and Qin sedans are also slated for the Japanese market, according to the report.
BYD entered Japan’s passenger car market in July 2022 and began selling its electric vehicles (EVs) in the country in January 2023. The first model launched was the Atto 3, known as the Yuan Plus in China, which is BYD’s first global vehicle. Since then, the company has expanded its Japanese portfolio, adding the Dolphin compact EV in September 2022 and the Seal EV in June 2023.
Currently, all of BYD’s models available in Japan are battery electric vehicles (BEVs), with no plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in the lineup. The new 7-seat Tang SUV will follow this trend, with its BEV version set to debut in Europe before arriving in Japan. The vehicle is expected to be priced at 72,000 euros ($80,200) in the European market.
The Seal EV has emerged as BYD’s best-selling model in Japan, with over 500 units sold since its launch in June 2023. However, the exact timeline for the release of the Tang, Qin, and Han models in Japan remains uncertain due to regulatory challenges and certification requirements in the Japanese automotive market.
BYD’s plans for the Japanese market reflect the company’s broader strategy of expanding its international presence. However, strict government regulations on imported cars and other variables could influence the timing and success of BYD’s future launches in Japan.
