After establishing a presence in South Korea’s commercial vehicle market for approximately eight years, BYD is finalizing plans to introduce passenger electric vehicles (EVs) in the country. The company has selected three of its globally popular electric cars for release in South Korea.
BYD has commenced regulatory work to launch its first electric cars in South Korea, with the official launch expected to take place in the second half of the year.
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An exclusive report by Chosun Biz revealed that BYD has chosen its retail partners for selling passenger EVs in South Korea. Hanseong Motors, Doiche Motors, Seyoung Mobility, and Samchully Motors have been selected as retail partners, signaling BYD’s serious consideration of South Korea’s electric car market and its aim to provide customers with a premium experience compared to mainstream local EV brands like Hyundai and Kia.
Han Sung Motor, South Korea’s largest Mercedes-Benz dealer, will operate BYD dealerships in Seoul’s Gangnam and Gangdong districts. Deutsche Motors, a leading BMW and MINI dealer listed on the KOSDAQ, will run outlets in Seoul’s Secho district and three locations in Gyeonggi Province.
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Seyoung Mobility, a Porsche dealer, will handle BYD passenger EVs in Seoul’s Gangbuk district, Uijeongbu, and Goyang. Samchully Motors, also a BMW dealer, will set up retail outlets in Seoul’s Yangcheon district, specifically in the Mokdong ward, as well as in Incheon and Anyang cities in Gyeonggi Province.
BYD has appointed a Hong Kong-based BMW dealer to sell its electric cars in Seoul’s Gangseo district and Gimpo in Gyeonggi Province. The company also intends to establish passenger EV dealerships in non-metropolitan areas in the future.
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Initially, three BYD electric cars will be available in South Korea: the BYD Dolphin, a small hatchback; the BYD Atto 3, a compact SUV; and the BYD Seal, a mid-size sedan. While the small hatchback may not face direct competition, the compact SUV and mid-size sedan could compete with models like the Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia Niro EV, Hyundai Ioniq 6, and Tesla Model 3.
