BYD (HKG: 1211, OTCMKTS: BYDDY) is set to increase its overseas production capacity with the establishment of a new factory in Pakistan. The Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturer aims to commence operations at the facility next year, with plans to roll out its first electric vehicle (EV) assembled in Pakistan by July or August 2026.
The factory, currently under construction near Karachi in collaboration with Mega Motor Company, a subsidiary of Pakistan’s utility firm Hub Power, is expected to play a crucial role in meeting the rising demand for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles in the region. Danish Khaliq, BYD Pakistan’s vice president of sales and strategy, revealed that the facility will initially operate on a two-shift system with an annual production capacity of 25,000 units.
Khaliq further stated that the factory will initially focus on assembling imported components while also producing some non-electric parts locally. The assembled vehicles will primarily target the domestic market in Pakistan, with potential plans to export to right-hand drive countries in the region based on freight costs and business economics.
BYD officially entered the Pakistani market in August 2024 and introduced three models – the all-electric Atto 3, Seal EV, and hybrid Sealion 6. These models, known as the Yuan Plus and Song Plus DM-i in China, have garnered significant interest in the market. The company may also consider establishing its first NEV assembly plant in Karachi in the future, depending on development needs.
With the commencement of EV deliveries in Pakistan in March, BYD has already exceeded internal sales targets, with hundreds of vehicles sold. Khaliq anticipates a three to fourfold growth in the market size for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles in Pakistan in 2025, aiming to capture a substantial market share of 30 to 35 percent.
In line with its expansion plans, BYD is set to launch the Shark 6 plug-in hybrid pickup truck in Pakistan, following its successful debut in Mexico in May 2024. The pickup truck, known as the BYD Shark in Mexico, has been rebranded as Shark 6 in overseas markets and will cater to the growing demand for environmentally friendly vehicles in Pakistan.
The establishment of the factory in Pakistan aligns with BYD’s strategic objective to tap into emerging markets and leverage incentives provided by the Pakistani government. The company’s foray into local production signifies a significant milestone in its global expansion efforts, positioning BYD as a key player in the evolving landscape of sustainable transportation solutions.
