Fast-growing Chinese brand BYD is planning a rapid expansion across the UK, aiming to more than double its retail footprint by the end of the year.
The car manufacturer, which only entered the UK market in 2023, already has 67 sites nationwide and is targeting 120 locations within the next eight months.
The ambitious plans were confirmed by Bono Ge, BYD’s country manager for the UK and Ireland, during the launch of the new Sealion7 SUV at Alan Day Motor Group in London’s New Southgate.
“The network is really important to us,” said Ge. “We only want to work with a limited number of investors and ensure they are happy with their returns and feel comfortable about their investment.”
Another new addition is the Greenhous Group, one of the country’s largest privately-owned dealer networks.
The group has announced BYD as the latest manufacturer in its growing portfolio, with a new showroom set to open at its Trench Lock dealership in Telford.
The site, currently home to brands like Vauxhall, Citroën, Leapmotor and Peugeot Commercials, will undergo refurbishment to accommodate BYD.
Ashley Passant, managing director of Greenhous’ car and van division, stated: “The addition of BYD enhances the diversity of our brands and aligns with our sustainability goals and the evolving needs of our customers. BYD’s reputation for quality, efficiency, and innovation makes it a perfect fit for our vision of the future.”
As well as being a carmaker, BYD is one of the world’s largest battery producers, with proprietary Blade Battery technology.
Ge noted that while BYD is bullish on new technologies – including megawatt charging and ultra-fast Blade Battery-equipped vehicles – there are hurdles to overcome before Blade Battery technology can become mainstream in the UK.
“We have megawatt charging in China, but here, it depends on regulation, licensing, grid capacity, and electricity prices,” he said. “Many people have already invested in current chargers, and we believe it’s important to utilise them fully before moving ahead.”
Despite those challenges, Ge said he was confident of the market success of BYD products, pointing to strong early sales of the Sealion7 and new cars, vans, and pickups set to debut later this year.
