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The Advertiser
15 hours ago
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Australia's EV sales race gets a jolt as surprising new entry knocks off a Tesla
The Tesla Model Y was unsurprisingly Australia's best-selling electric vehicle (EV) in May, but a surprising new nameplate claimed third place. Another mid-size electric SUV, the Geely EX5 notched up 511 deliveries in May, placing it behind only the Kia EV5 (703 deliveries) and Model Y, which found a whopping 3580 new homes. Not only did the new Chinese electric SUV, launched earlier this year, surpass the Tesla Model 3 electric sedan (317) – typically Australia's second best-selling EV – it also managed to outsell a raft of other popular EVs. The EX5 narrowly beat the similarly new BYD Sealion 7 mid-size SUV (488), and there was significant daylight between it and BYD's Seal sedan (355), Dolphin hatch (345) and Atto 3 medium SUV (322), as well as the MG 4 hatch (319). Last month the EX5 even managed to outsell various combustion-powered mid-size SUVs such as the MG HS (277) and Honda CR-V (494). Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. To the end of May, Geely has delivered 1023 examples of its EX5 this year. It's still behind the rival Sealion 7 (1961), of which first deliveries were recorded a month earlier than the EX5's in February, and just below the Atto 3 (1278). It's also being outsold by the Model Y (6974) and Model 3 (2583), while the Kia EV5 is continuing to sell strongly since launching last year and is sitting at 2212 deliveries year-to-date. But the EX5 has swiftly dispatched fellow Chinese rivals like the Leapmotor C10, of which 178 electric versions have been delivered so far this year. Deepal has recorded only 67 deliveries of its S07 thus far this year, but there's a caveat here – the auto brand only started reporting its sales figures in monthly VFACTS reports in May, despite first customer deliveries commencing last December. The EX5 is sharply priced, starting at $40,990 before on-road costs, but Geely is further sweetening the pot with various end of financial year (EOFY) incentives. It's now available with a 3.88 per cent finance comparison rate, while Geely is offering either a $2000 gift card or five years of complimentary scheduled servicing until June 30, 2025. Additionally, those who buy an EX5 before June 30 will receive a complimentary mode 2 charging cable, and Geely is also offering a $2000 trade-in bonus. Geely is far from the only brand extending sharp EOFY deals. Deepal, for example, is offering its S07 for $49,990 drive-away until June 30, a saving of around $8000 when comparing drive-away prices in New South Wales. But Geely is moving quickly to establish itself in Australia, having previously confirmed it plans to have over 20 dealerships in Australia by mid-year and planning to launch more than six new models over the next three years. They are expected to include a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sibling to the EX5, which has already been spied testing in Australia. Geely already had a presence in Australia before relaunching its namesake brand nationwide this year (some Geely models were previously available via an independent importer in Western Australia) , as the Chinese automaker also owns brands including Lotus, Polestar, Volvo and Zeekr. MORE: Everything Geely EX5 Content originally sourced from: The Tesla Model Y was unsurprisingly Australia's best-selling electric vehicle (EV) in May, but a surprising new nameplate claimed third place. Another mid-size electric SUV, the Geely EX5 notched up 511 deliveries in May, placing it behind only the Kia EV5 (703 deliveries) and Model Y, which found a whopping 3580 new homes. Not only did the new Chinese electric SUV, launched earlier this year, surpass the Tesla Model 3 electric sedan (317) – typically Australia's second best-selling EV – it also managed to outsell a raft of other popular EVs. The EX5 narrowly beat the similarly new BYD Sealion 7 mid-size SUV (488), and there was significant daylight between it and BYD's Seal sedan (355), Dolphin hatch (345) and Atto 3 medium SUV (322), as well as the MG 4 hatch (319). Last month the EX5 even managed to outsell various combustion-powered mid-size SUVs such as the MG HS (277) and Honda CR-V (494). Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. To the end of May, Geely has delivered 1023 examples of its EX5 this year. It's still behind the rival Sealion 7 (1961), of which first deliveries were recorded a month earlier than the EX5's in February, and just below the Atto 3 (1278). It's also being outsold by the Model Y (6974) and Model 3 (2583), while the Kia EV5 is continuing to sell strongly since launching last year and is sitting at 2212 deliveries year-to-date. But the EX5 has swiftly dispatched fellow Chinese rivals like the Leapmotor C10, of which 178 electric versions have been delivered so far this year. Deepal has recorded only 67 deliveries of its S07 thus far this year, but there's a caveat here – the auto brand only started reporting its sales figures in monthly VFACTS reports in May, despite first customer deliveries commencing last December. The EX5 is sharply priced, starting at $40,990 before on-road costs, but Geely is further sweetening the pot with various end of financial year (EOFY) incentives. It's now available with a 3.88 per cent finance comparison rate, while Geely is offering either a $2000 gift card or five years of complimentary scheduled servicing until June 30, 2025. Additionally, those who buy an EX5 before June 30 will receive a complimentary mode 2 charging cable, and Geely is also offering a $2000 trade-in bonus. Geely is far from the only brand extending sharp EOFY deals. Deepal, for example, is offering its S07 for $49,990 drive-away until June 30, a saving of around $8000 when comparing drive-away prices in New South Wales. But Geely is moving quickly to establish itself in Australia, having previously confirmed it plans to have over 20 dealerships in Australia by mid-year and planning to launch more than six new models over the next three years. They are expected to include a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sibling to the EX5, which has already been spied testing in Australia. Geely already had a presence in Australia before relaunching its namesake brand nationwide this year (some Geely models were previously available via an independent importer in Western Australia) , as the Chinese automaker also owns brands including Lotus, Polestar, Volvo and Zeekr. MORE: Everything Geely EX5 Content originally sourced from: The Tesla Model Y was unsurprisingly Australia's best-selling electric vehicle (EV) in May, but a surprising new nameplate claimed third place. Another mid-size electric SUV, the Geely EX5 notched up 511 deliveries in May, placing it behind only the Kia EV5 (703 deliveries) and Model Y, which found a whopping 3580 new homes. Not only did the new Chinese electric SUV, launched earlier this year, surpass the Tesla Model 3 electric sedan (317) – typically Australia's second best-selling EV – it also managed to outsell a raft of other popular EVs. The EX5 narrowly beat the similarly new BYD Sealion 7 mid-size SUV (488), and there was significant daylight between it and BYD's Seal sedan (355), Dolphin hatch (345) and Atto 3 medium SUV (322), as well as the MG 4 hatch (319). Last month the EX5 even managed to outsell various combustion-powered mid-size SUVs such as the MG HS (277) and Honda CR-V (494). Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. To the end of May, Geely has delivered 1023 examples of its EX5 this year. It's still behind the rival Sealion 7 (1961), of which first deliveries were recorded a month earlier than the EX5's in February, and just below the Atto 3 (1278). It's also being outsold by the Model Y (6974) and Model 3 (2583), while the Kia EV5 is continuing to sell strongly since launching last year and is sitting at 2212 deliveries year-to-date. But the EX5 has swiftly dispatched fellow Chinese rivals like the Leapmotor C10, of which 178 electric versions have been delivered so far this year. Deepal has recorded only 67 deliveries of its S07 thus far this year, but there's a caveat here – the auto brand only started reporting its sales figures in monthly VFACTS reports in May, despite first customer deliveries commencing last December. The EX5 is sharply priced, starting at $40,990 before on-road costs, but Geely is further sweetening the pot with various end of financial year (EOFY) incentives. It's now available with a 3.88 per cent finance comparison rate, while Geely is offering either a $2000 gift card or five years of complimentary scheduled servicing until June 30, 2025. Additionally, those who buy an EX5 before June 30 will receive a complimentary mode 2 charging cable, and Geely is also offering a $2000 trade-in bonus. Geely is far from the only brand extending sharp EOFY deals. Deepal, for example, is offering its S07 for $49,990 drive-away until June 30, a saving of around $8000 when comparing drive-away prices in New South Wales. But Geely is moving quickly to establish itself in Australia, having previously confirmed it plans to have over 20 dealerships in Australia by mid-year and planning to launch more than six new models over the next three years. They are expected to include a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sibling to the EX5, which has already been spied testing in Australia. Geely already had a presence in Australia before relaunching its namesake brand nationwide this year (some Geely models were previously available via an independent importer in Western Australia) , as the Chinese automaker also owns brands including Lotus, Polestar, Volvo and Zeekr. MORE: Everything Geely EX5 Content originally sourced from: The Tesla Model Y was unsurprisingly Australia's best-selling electric vehicle (EV) in May, but a surprising new nameplate claimed third place. Another mid-size electric SUV, the Geely EX5 notched up 511 deliveries in May, placing it behind only the Kia EV5 (703 deliveries) and Model Y, which found a whopping 3580 new homes. Not only did the new Chinese electric SUV, launched earlier this year, surpass the Tesla Model 3 electric sedan (317) – typically Australia's second best-selling EV – it also managed to outsell a raft of other popular EVs. The EX5 narrowly beat the similarly new BYD Sealion 7 mid-size SUV (488), and there was significant daylight between it and BYD's Seal sedan (355), Dolphin hatch (345) and Atto 3 medium SUV (322), as well as the MG 4 hatch (319). Last month the EX5 even managed to outsell various combustion-powered mid-size SUVs such as the MG HS (277) and Honda CR-V (494). Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. To the end of May, Geely has delivered 1023 examples of its EX5 this year. It's still behind the rival Sealion 7 (1961), of which first deliveries were recorded a month earlier than the EX5's in February, and just below the Atto 3 (1278). It's also being outsold by the Model Y (6974) and Model 3 (2583), while the Kia EV5 is continuing to sell strongly since launching last year and is sitting at 2212 deliveries year-to-date. But the EX5 has swiftly dispatched fellow Chinese rivals like the Leapmotor C10, of which 178 electric versions have been delivered so far this year. Deepal has recorded only 67 deliveries of its S07 thus far this year, but there's a caveat here – the auto brand only started reporting its sales figures in monthly VFACTS reports in May, despite first customer deliveries commencing last December. The EX5 is sharply priced, starting at $40,990 before on-road costs, but Geely is further sweetening the pot with various end of financial year (EOFY) incentives. It's now available with a 3.88 per cent finance comparison rate, while Geely is offering either a $2000 gift card or five years of complimentary scheduled servicing until June 30, 2025. Additionally, those who buy an EX5 before June 30 will receive a complimentary mode 2 charging cable, and Geely is also offering a $2000 trade-in bonus. Geely is far from the only brand extending sharp EOFY deals. Deepal, for example, is offering its S07 for $49,990 drive-away until June 30, a saving of around $8000 when comparing drive-away prices in New South Wales. But Geely is moving quickly to establish itself in Australia, having previously confirmed it plans to have over 20 dealerships in Australia by mid-year and planning to launch more than six new models over the next three years. They are expected to include a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sibling to the EX5, which has already been spied testing in Australia. Geely already had a presence in Australia before relaunching its namesake brand nationwide this year (some Geely models were previously available via an independent importer in Western Australia) , as the Chinese automaker also owns brands including Lotus, Polestar, Volvo and Zeekr. MORE: Everything Geely EX5 Content originally sourced from:
Canberra Times
a day ago
- Automotive
- Canberra Times
Australia's EV sales race gets a jolt as surprising new entry knocks off a Tesla
To the end of May, Geely has delivered 1023 examples of its EX5 this year. It's still behind the rival Sealion 7 (1961), of which first deliveries were recorded a month earlier than the EX5's in February, and just below the Atto 3 (1278).
Auto Express
a day ago
- Automotive
- Auto Express
Tesla overtaken by China's BYD in the UK car sales charts
Chinese giant BYD has done what many a few years ago would have deemed impossible by overtaking Tesla in UK new-car sales last month, signalling the 'Build Your Dreams' brand is here to stay. In May, just over 3,000 new BYD models were registered in the UK – five times more than the same period in 2023. So far this year, the brand's top seller has been the Seal U hybrid SUV, which sits above the Atto 3, Seal and Dolphin EVs in the brand's model range. Advertisement - Article continues below On the other hand, only a little more than 2,000 new Teslas hit the road last month, meaning it's a third down compared with its main rival. Although BYD is still lagging behind Tesla for overall UK sales in 2025, it's not by that much; the Chinese maker has registered 14,807 models here since the beginning of this year, compared with Tesla's 15,002. In a statement, Elon Musk's EV brand was also keen to point out that while it is 33 per cent behind year-on-year in terms of new registrations, this is due to a switchover in production of the revised Model Y. Tesla says it's 'comfortably' been taking orders for the new car and while it does not pre-register new examples – meaning sales figures are severely down this month – it does expect a return to form in June. Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below Chand Chudasama, partner at Price Bailey, an accounting firm with heavy experience in the automotive sector, said: 'While the shift to electric vehicles is gaining momentum, consumer sentiment remains fragile. Increasingly the switch to electric cars is being led by cheaper Chinese brands such as BYD at the expense of premium models like Tesla." Chudasama continued, emphasising that Tesla's momentum in the UK market will rely heavily on future trade negotiations between the US and UK; while cars imported here won't necessarily be subjected to tariffs like the ones inflicted on UK cars exported to the US, Tesla may in time be forced to raise prices in Britain in order to recoup some of the financial impact caused by additional duties. Advertisement - Article continues below All of this comes after what has been described by the UK's Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) as a 'return to form' for the UK car market, with just over 150,000 new cars being registered last month – one-and-a-half per cent up on the same period last year. EV registrations accounted for 22 per cent of new-car sales in May, but at 21 per cent for the year so far, the electric car market share remains far behind the 28 per cent demanded by the UK's tough ZEV Mandate rules. SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: 'A return to growth for new car registrations in May is welcome, but manufacturer discounting on new products continues to underpin the market, notably for electric vehicles.' Hawes warned that such practices 'cannot be sustained indefinitely as it undermines the ability of companies to invest in new product development – investments which are integral to the decarbonisation of all road transport.' Next week, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to outlay the details of the government's Spending Review. This, the SMMT is hoping, will include a halving of VAT on new EV sales, cutting VAT on public charging to match that of home electricity and lifting the so-called 'luxury car tax' threshold for electric cars – all things the organisation believes will bolster sales. Buy a car with Auto Express. Our nationwide dealer network has some fantastic cars on offer right now with new, used and leasing deals to choose from... Find a car with the experts BYD's plug-in hybrid onslaught to be led by 124-mile secret weapons Plug-in hybrid tech looks like playing an increasingly important role in BYD's future, but expect more EV range, faster charging and better fuel econo… BYD beats Dacia, Honda and Citroen: Chinese EV giant already outsells 'big' UK brands EV sales were up slightly last month year-on-year, but overall car sales were down as buyers tried to dodge increased road tax Best new cars coming soon: all the big new car launches due in 2025, 2026 and beyond These are the most important new cars headed our way, from brands including Audi, BMW, Dacia, Ferrari, Ford, Skoda and more Best cars & vans 8 Apr 2025 Shanghai Motor Show 2025: what all the big car brands are up to The Shanghai Auto Show is now an established part of the automotive calendar – we've got a full list of show debuts New Kia Sportage breaks cover and it's sleeker than ever New Kia Sportage breaks cover and it's sleeker than ever Full specification and details have been announced for the UK version of Kia's big-selling mid-size SUV Car Deal of the Day: Get the Range Rover look for (a lot) less with the Jaecoo 7 for £244 a month Car Deal of the Day: Get the Range Rover look for (a lot) less with the Jaecoo 7 for £244 a month Jaecoo is another Chinese brand that has recently arrived in the UK, and its 7 SUV has made a bit of a splash. It's our Deal of the Day for 3 June. Car Deal of the Day: The Citroen C5 Aircross is a big car for a very small £208 a month Car Deal of the Day: The Citroen C5 Aircross is a big car for a very small £208 a month Its replacement may be waiting in the wings, but the current Citroen C5 Aircross is still a fine car. It's our Deal of the Day for 2 June.
The Advertiser
26-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
BYD drops local importer EVDirect, will distribute vehicles in Australia itself
BYD Automotive is taking control of its Australian operations from July 2025, dropping EVDirect as its local distributor. EVDirect will remain involved with the Chinese brand, however, through a minority stake in its retail joint venture with Eagers Automotive Limited, called EVDealer Group. It has a 20 per cent stake in this joint venture, with Eagers holding 80 per cent. EVDirect CEO David Smitherman will serve as CEO of the joint venture. BYD Australia and Eagers have signed a term sheet for a new five-year dealer agreement, with an option for a further five-year term. This term sheet is subject to finalisation of formal documentation between the joint venture and BYD Australia. Not only does this move preserve the current network of retail and service locations, but it also allows Eagers to expand its retail footprint for the BYD brand, provided BYD Australia approves. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "This transition is consistent with BYD's continued global reach into key strategic markets and will strengthen the brand's capabilities in Australia by leveraging BYD's global resourcing and expertise," Eagers Automotive said in a press release. In its own press release, EVDirect said the move comes a year ahead of schedule. "Now is the time to further unlock BYD's immense potential for Australian drivers," said Luke Todd, chairman and founder of EVDirect and incoming executive chairman of EVDealer Group. "Phase One proved the BYD brand would thrive here; Phase Two will make new-energy vehicle ownership easier and more accessible than ever," he added, with EVDirect noting it intends to offer customers more retail locations, shorter wait times, and enhanced after-sales support. "As the inaugural importer, EVDirect is extremely proud of the role it has played in the launch of BYD into the Australian market, overseeing what has been one of the most successful new car brand launches in Australian history," added Mr Todd. "As a team we are extremely proud of what's been achieved and even more excited by the future as our team reposition into a new role that will help catapult the BYD brand further, right across Australia." We've contacted BYD Australia for comment. The BYD brand has grown rapidly in Australia, after an uncertain start. BYD e6 vehicles had previously been distributed in limited numbers under Carbridge and Nexport, companies run by Luke Todd. The T3 electric van was also offered here in limited numbers in 2021. But it was the launch of the Atto 3 in 2022 that put BYD on the map with Australian new car buyers, with the small-to-medium electric SUV aimed at the heart of the local EV market. Initially offered only through its website, EVDirect subsequently announced in 2022 plans to sell BYD vehicles through Eagers dealers and have them additionally able to be serviced at Mycar locations. EVDirect and Eagers established a 51:49 joint venture retail partnership, which in 2023 shifted to a 20:80 split. The local distributor has long stated aggressive goals for the Australian market, saying back in 2022 and 2023 it wanted to be a top five brand. Even as recently as this year, Mr Todd said BYD could overtake Toyota as soon as 2027 in Australia. Last year, BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, including 14,260 electric vehicles (EVs) and 6198 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), which was enough to make it our market's second best-selling EV brand and the second best-selling PHEV brand. Overall, it was the market's 17th best-selling brand in 2024. The move to in-house distribution will see BYD join other Chinese brands such as MG, GWM/Haval, Chery/Jaecoo and Geely. Chinese brands that use a third-party distributor include LDV (Ateco), Deepal and Foton (Inchcape), and Xpeng (TrueEV). There's also Leapmotor, which leverages Stellantis retail locations through the Leapmotor International joint venture with the European/American giant. BYD will not only be distributing vehicles under its namesake brand, but also under its premium Denza brand, which is due on our shores this year. Content originally sourced from: BYD Automotive is taking control of its Australian operations from July 2025, dropping EVDirect as its local distributor. EVDirect will remain involved with the Chinese brand, however, through a minority stake in its retail joint venture with Eagers Automotive Limited, called EVDealer Group. It has a 20 per cent stake in this joint venture, with Eagers holding 80 per cent. EVDirect CEO David Smitherman will serve as CEO of the joint venture. BYD Australia and Eagers have signed a term sheet for a new five-year dealer agreement, with an option for a further five-year term. This term sheet is subject to finalisation of formal documentation between the joint venture and BYD Australia. Not only does this move preserve the current network of retail and service locations, but it also allows Eagers to expand its retail footprint for the BYD brand, provided BYD Australia approves. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "This transition is consistent with BYD's continued global reach into key strategic markets and will strengthen the brand's capabilities in Australia by leveraging BYD's global resourcing and expertise," Eagers Automotive said in a press release. In its own press release, EVDirect said the move comes a year ahead of schedule. "Now is the time to further unlock BYD's immense potential for Australian drivers," said Luke Todd, chairman and founder of EVDirect and incoming executive chairman of EVDealer Group. "Phase One proved the BYD brand would thrive here; Phase Two will make new-energy vehicle ownership easier and more accessible than ever," he added, with EVDirect noting it intends to offer customers more retail locations, shorter wait times, and enhanced after-sales support. "As the inaugural importer, EVDirect is extremely proud of the role it has played in the launch of BYD into the Australian market, overseeing what has been one of the most successful new car brand launches in Australian history," added Mr Todd. "As a team we are extremely proud of what's been achieved and even more excited by the future as our team reposition into a new role that will help catapult the BYD brand further, right across Australia." We've contacted BYD Australia for comment. The BYD brand has grown rapidly in Australia, after an uncertain start. BYD e6 vehicles had previously been distributed in limited numbers under Carbridge and Nexport, companies run by Luke Todd. The T3 electric van was also offered here in limited numbers in 2021. But it was the launch of the Atto 3 in 2022 that put BYD on the map with Australian new car buyers, with the small-to-medium electric SUV aimed at the heart of the local EV market. Initially offered only through its website, EVDirect subsequently announced in 2022 plans to sell BYD vehicles through Eagers dealers and have them additionally able to be serviced at Mycar locations. EVDirect and Eagers established a 51:49 joint venture retail partnership, which in 2023 shifted to a 20:80 split. The local distributor has long stated aggressive goals for the Australian market, saying back in 2022 and 2023 it wanted to be a top five brand. Even as recently as this year, Mr Todd said BYD could overtake Toyota as soon as 2027 in Australia. Last year, BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, including 14,260 electric vehicles (EVs) and 6198 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), which was enough to make it our market's second best-selling EV brand and the second best-selling PHEV brand. Overall, it was the market's 17th best-selling brand in 2024. The move to in-house distribution will see BYD join other Chinese brands such as MG, GWM/Haval, Chery/Jaecoo and Geely. Chinese brands that use a third-party distributor include LDV (Ateco), Deepal and Foton (Inchcape), and Xpeng (TrueEV). There's also Leapmotor, which leverages Stellantis retail locations through the Leapmotor International joint venture with the European/American giant. BYD will not only be distributing vehicles under its namesake brand, but also under its premium Denza brand, which is due on our shores this year. Content originally sourced from: BYD Automotive is taking control of its Australian operations from July 2025, dropping EVDirect as its local distributor. EVDirect will remain involved with the Chinese brand, however, through a minority stake in its retail joint venture with Eagers Automotive Limited, called EVDealer Group. It has a 20 per cent stake in this joint venture, with Eagers holding 80 per cent. EVDirect CEO David Smitherman will serve as CEO of the joint venture. BYD Australia and Eagers have signed a term sheet for a new five-year dealer agreement, with an option for a further five-year term. This term sheet is subject to finalisation of formal documentation between the joint venture and BYD Australia. Not only does this move preserve the current network of retail and service locations, but it also allows Eagers to expand its retail footprint for the BYD brand, provided BYD Australia approves. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "This transition is consistent with BYD's continued global reach into key strategic markets and will strengthen the brand's capabilities in Australia by leveraging BYD's global resourcing and expertise," Eagers Automotive said in a press release. In its own press release, EVDirect said the move comes a year ahead of schedule. "Now is the time to further unlock BYD's immense potential for Australian drivers," said Luke Todd, chairman and founder of EVDirect and incoming executive chairman of EVDealer Group. "Phase One proved the BYD brand would thrive here; Phase Two will make new-energy vehicle ownership easier and more accessible than ever," he added, with EVDirect noting it intends to offer customers more retail locations, shorter wait times, and enhanced after-sales support. "As the inaugural importer, EVDirect is extremely proud of the role it has played in the launch of BYD into the Australian market, overseeing what has been one of the most successful new car brand launches in Australian history," added Mr Todd. "As a team we are extremely proud of what's been achieved and even more excited by the future as our team reposition into a new role that will help catapult the BYD brand further, right across Australia." We've contacted BYD Australia for comment. The BYD brand has grown rapidly in Australia, after an uncertain start. BYD e6 vehicles had previously been distributed in limited numbers under Carbridge and Nexport, companies run by Luke Todd. The T3 electric van was also offered here in limited numbers in 2021. But it was the launch of the Atto 3 in 2022 that put BYD on the map with Australian new car buyers, with the small-to-medium electric SUV aimed at the heart of the local EV market. Initially offered only through its website, EVDirect subsequently announced in 2022 plans to sell BYD vehicles through Eagers dealers and have them additionally able to be serviced at Mycar locations. EVDirect and Eagers established a 51:49 joint venture retail partnership, which in 2023 shifted to a 20:80 split. The local distributor has long stated aggressive goals for the Australian market, saying back in 2022 and 2023 it wanted to be a top five brand. Even as recently as this year, Mr Todd said BYD could overtake Toyota as soon as 2027 in Australia. Last year, BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, including 14,260 electric vehicles (EVs) and 6198 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), which was enough to make it our market's second best-selling EV brand and the second best-selling PHEV brand. Overall, it was the market's 17th best-selling brand in 2024. The move to in-house distribution will see BYD join other Chinese brands such as MG, GWM/Haval, Chery/Jaecoo and Geely. Chinese brands that use a third-party distributor include LDV (Ateco), Deepal and Foton (Inchcape), and Xpeng (TrueEV). There's also Leapmotor, which leverages Stellantis retail locations through the Leapmotor International joint venture with the European/American giant. BYD will not only be distributing vehicles under its namesake brand, but also under its premium Denza brand, which is due on our shores this year. Content originally sourced from: BYD Automotive is taking control of its Australian operations from July 2025, dropping EVDirect as its local distributor. EVDirect will remain involved with the Chinese brand, however, through a minority stake in its retail joint venture with Eagers Automotive Limited, called EVDealer Group. It has a 20 per cent stake in this joint venture, with Eagers holding 80 per cent. EVDirect CEO David Smitherman will serve as CEO of the joint venture. BYD Australia and Eagers have signed a term sheet for a new five-year dealer agreement, with an option for a further five-year term. This term sheet is subject to finalisation of formal documentation between the joint venture and BYD Australia. Not only does this move preserve the current network of retail and service locations, but it also allows Eagers to expand its retail footprint for the BYD brand, provided BYD Australia approves. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "This transition is consistent with BYD's continued global reach into key strategic markets and will strengthen the brand's capabilities in Australia by leveraging BYD's global resourcing and expertise," Eagers Automotive said in a press release. In its own press release, EVDirect said the move comes a year ahead of schedule. "Now is the time to further unlock BYD's immense potential for Australian drivers," said Luke Todd, chairman and founder of EVDirect and incoming executive chairman of EVDealer Group. "Phase One proved the BYD brand would thrive here; Phase Two will make new-energy vehicle ownership easier and more accessible than ever," he added, with EVDirect noting it intends to offer customers more retail locations, shorter wait times, and enhanced after-sales support. "As the inaugural importer, EVDirect is extremely proud of the role it has played in the launch of BYD into the Australian market, overseeing what has been one of the most successful new car brand launches in Australian history," added Mr Todd. "As a team we are extremely proud of what's been achieved and even more excited by the future as our team reposition into a new role that will help catapult the BYD brand further, right across Australia." We've contacted BYD Australia for comment. The BYD brand has grown rapidly in Australia, after an uncertain start. BYD e6 vehicles had previously been distributed in limited numbers under Carbridge and Nexport, companies run by Luke Todd. The T3 electric van was also offered here in limited numbers in 2021. But it was the launch of the Atto 3 in 2022 that put BYD on the map with Australian new car buyers, with the small-to-medium electric SUV aimed at the heart of the local EV market. Initially offered only through its website, EVDirect subsequently announced in 2022 plans to sell BYD vehicles through Eagers dealers and have them additionally able to be serviced at Mycar locations. EVDirect and Eagers established a 51:49 joint venture retail partnership, which in 2023 shifted to a 20:80 split. The local distributor has long stated aggressive goals for the Australian market, saying back in 2022 and 2023 it wanted to be a top five brand. Even as recently as this year, Mr Todd said BYD could overtake Toyota as soon as 2027 in Australia. Last year, BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, including 14,260 electric vehicles (EVs) and 6198 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), which was enough to make it our market's second best-selling EV brand and the second best-selling PHEV brand. Overall, it was the market's 17th best-selling brand in 2024. The move to in-house distribution will see BYD join other Chinese brands such as MG, GWM/Haval, Chery/Jaecoo and Geely. Chinese brands that use a third-party distributor include LDV (Ateco), Deepal and Foton (Inchcape), and Xpeng (TrueEV). There's also Leapmotor, which leverages Stellantis retail locations through the Leapmotor International joint venture with the European/American giant. BYD will not only be distributing vehicles under its namesake brand, but also under its premium Denza brand, which is due on our shores this year. Content originally sourced from:
Perth Now
26-05-2025
- Automotive
- Perth Now
BYD drops local importer EVDirect, will distribute vehicles in Australia itself
BYD Automotive is taking control of its Australian operations from July 2025, dropping EVDirect as its local distributor. EVDirect will remain involved with the Chinese brand, however, through a minority stake in its retail joint venture with Eagers Automotive Limited, called EVDealer Group. It has a 20 per cent stake in this joint venture, with Eagers holding 80 per cent. EVDirect CEO David Smitherman will serve as CEO of the joint venture. BYD Australia and Eagers have signed a term sheet for a new five-year dealer agreement, with an option for a further five-year term. This term sheet is subject to finalisation of formal documentation between the joint venture and BYD Australia. Not only does this move preserve the current network of retail and service locations, but it also allows Eagers to expand its retail footprint for the BYD brand, provided BYD Australia approves. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Supplied Credit: CarExpert 'This transition is consistent with BYD's continued global reach into key strategic markets and will strengthen the brand's capabilities in Australia by leveraging BYD's global resourcing and expertise,' Eagers Automotive said in a press release. In its own press release, EVDirect said the move comes a year ahead of schedule. 'Now is the time to further unlock BYD's immense potential for Australian drivers,' said Luke Todd, chairman and founder of EVDirect and incoming executive chairman of EVDealer Group. 'Phase One proved the BYD brand would thrive here; Phase Two will make new-energy vehicle ownership easier and more accessible than ever,' he added, with EVDirect noting it intends to offer customers more retail locations, shorter wait times, and enhanced after-sales support. 'As the inaugural importer, EVDirect is extremely proud of the role it has played in the launch of BYD into the Australian market, overseeing what has been one of the most successful new car brand launches in Australian history,' added Mr Todd. Supplied Credit: CarExpert 'As a team we are extremely proud of what's been achieved and even more excited by the future as our team reposition into a new role that will help catapult the BYD brand further, right across Australia.' We've contacted BYD Australia for comment. The BYD brand has grown rapidly in Australia, after an uncertain start. BYD e6 vehicles had previously been distributed in limited numbers under Carbridge and Nexport, companies run by Luke Todd. The T3 electric van was also offered here in limited numbers in 2021. But it was the launch of the Atto 3 in 2022 that put BYD on the map with Australian new car buyers, with the small-to-medium electric SUV aimed at the heart of the local EV market. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Initially offered only through its website, EVDirect subsequently announced in 2022 plans to sell BYD vehicles through Eagers dealers and have them additionally able to be serviced at Mycar locations. EVDirect and Eagers established a 51:49 joint venture retail partnership, which in 2023 shifted to a 20:80 split. The local distributor has long stated aggressive goals for the Australian market, saying back in 2022 and 2023 it wanted to be a top five brand. Even as recently as this year, Mr Todd said BYD could overtake Toyota as soon as 2027 in Australia. Last year, BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, including 14,260 electric vehicles (EVs) and 6198 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), which was enough to make it our market's second best-selling EV brand and the second best-selling PHEV brand. Overall, it was the market's 17th best-selling brand in 2024. Supplied Credit: CarExpert The move to in-house distribution will see BYD join other Chinese brands such as MG, GWM/Haval, Chery/Jaecoo and Geely. Chinese brands that use a third-party distributor include LDV (Ateco), Deepal and Foton (Inchcape), and Xpeng (TrueEV). There's also Leapmotor, which leverages Stellantis retail locations through the Leapmotor International joint venture with the European/American giant. BYD will not only be distributing vehicles under its namesake brand, but also under its premium Denza brand, which is due on our shores this year.
