BYD boss says Australia success key to global EV domination plans
The billionaire founder of a Chinese electric vehicle giant has declared Australia the ultimate proving ground, claiming local success is a 'signal to the world' the brand is ready to dominate the globe.
Build Your Dreams (BYD) boss Wang Chuanfu made the claim in a rare and exclusive interview with News Corp Australia. Previously, Mr Chuanfu had never spoken with Australian media.
The quietly spoken founder, chairman and president of BYD, made a surprise appearance in Melbourne this week to hand over the 60,000th BYD vehicle sold in Australia.
It's a major milestone for an automotive brand.
MORE: Massive car companies stop all US imports
BYD Founder Wang Chuanfu says Australia is key to global EV strategy as the brand hits 60,000 sales.
MORE: Car prices set to plummet
Mr Chuanfu said Australia had become far more than just another sales market.
'Australia is a key market for the BYD Brand. It's a highly competitive, advanced automotive market with an educated customer that values innovation, safety, and sustainability,' he told News Corp Australia.
He added that the brand's success wasn't just a sales win but a message.
'Success here is a signal to the world that BYD vehicles can meet and exceed the expectations of mature markets. The learnings we gain from Australia help shape our products and approach globally.'
BYD has been rapidly rising through the ranks as one Australia's fastest-growing automotive players.
Last month BYD achieved 8,156 monthly deliveries, up 386 per cent year-on-year and finished eighth overall in national sales.
MORE: Iconic car quits Aus amid global collapse
In June, BYD finished 5th overall in national sales. Picture: BYD
MORE: $9.1bn slide: Car giant hits the wall
The surge was largely due to the launch of the Shark 6 – the country's first plug-in hybrid ute.
This year the brand's success continues, with 40,000 vehicle deliveries forecasted.
Mr Chuanfu acknowledged local distributor EVDirect in helping build BYD's early momentum and praised Australian buyers for embracing BYD.
'Personally, it's very meaningful,' he said of the milestone.
'Our success in Australia would not have been possible without the strong partnership and
commitment of EVDirect.'
'As our exclusive distributor, they have been instrumental in bringing BYD's vision to cool the Earth by 1°C to Australian customers.
'We are proud of what we have achieved together and look forward to continuing this successful collaboration as we enter the next phase of growth.'
BYD Founder Wang Chuanfu, BYD Australia general manager Mr Wing You and BYD Asia-Pacific auto sales Mr Liu Xueliang arrive to a BYD dealership in Melbourne. Picture: BYD
Founded in 1995, BYD began as a battery manufacturer before expanding into tech, rail and eventually electric vehicles.
Today, it operates in more than 70 countries and employs more than 600,000 people worldwide.
Its expansion has unsettled traditional players, especially as the brand continues to undercut rivals on price without compromising on features or safety.
Currently, its Australian line-up includes the Atto 3, Dolphin, Seal, Sealion 6, Sealion 7 and Shark 6.
Originally published as BYD boss says Australia success key to global EV domination plans
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