BYD’s passenger car plant in Brazil has officially started production, marking a significant milestone for the Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) maker as it expands its presence in overseas markets. The factory, located in Camacari, Bahia State, began production on July 1 with a total investment of 5.5 billion Brazilian reais ($1 billion). The first model to roll off the production line is the Seagull, which has been renamed Dolphin Mini in Brazil and Mexico, and Dolphin Surf in Europe. This model is just the beginning, as other models like the Song Pro and Chaser 05 will also be produced locally.
The industrial complex in Camacari consists of three factories, including one dedicated to the production of electric buses and truck chassis, another for passenger NEVs, and a third for processing lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery materials. The passenger NEV production line has an annual capacity of 150,000 units and is capable of producing both pure electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids.
BYD’s entry into the Brazilian passenger vehicle market in 2021 has been met with success, with sales exceeding 130,000 units to date. In the first quarter of this year, the company surpassed 20,000 units in sales, making it the local NEV sales champion. In May, BYD climbed to fourth place in Brazil’s automotive brand retail sales rankings with a market share of 9.7 percent.
The company’s NEVs have reached over 110 countries and regions, with overseas sales exceeding 470,000 units in the first half of this year, a 132 percent year-on-year increase. BYD projects that its overseas sales will exceed 800,000 units in 2025.
Looking ahead, a BYD executive anticipates strong sales for the Shark model in Brazil, estimating between 10,000 and 15,000 units annually. This would position the Shark as a top 5 midsize pickup in the country.
With its commitment to sustainable transportation and expanding global reach, BYD continues to make strides in the automotive industry, offering innovative and environmentally friendly vehicles to consumers around the world.
