The world’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer, BYD is aggressively expanding its presence in South Africa’s rapidly evolving new energy vehicle (NEV) market, where it faces intensifying competition from other Chinese brands such as GAC, Chery, and Great Wall Motors (GWM).
The automaker, which launched in South Africa in 2023 with its BYD battery electric ATTO 3 vehicle, currently operates around 13 dealerships nationwide.
According to Steve Chang, General Manager of BYD Auto South Africa, the auto company plans to significantly expand its presence: “By the end of the year, we will have about 20 dealerships around the country, and we aim to grow that to around 30-35 by next year.”
In an interview with Reuters, Chang said that the expansion will help BYD become a familiar and trusted name as South Africa transitions to electrified vehicles.
New models, improved sales in SA
As part of its dual-powertrain strategy, the automaker introduced three new models in April: the plug-in hybrid Shark pick-up, the hybrid SEALION 6, and the fully electric SEALION 7 SUV, bringing its total South African offerings to six models that cover both hybrid and battery electric vehicles.
Industry figures reveal growing local interest in new energy vehicles (NEVs).
According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA), NEV sales more than doubled in 2024, reaching 15,611 units, up from 7,782 in 2023.
Although NEVs still account for a small fraction of total vehicle sales, the significant growth highlights a shifting consumer mindset that BYD is positioning itself to capitalize on.
Regarding the current market landscape, Chang stated, “While the share of NEVs to total car sales is still low, BYD is hoping to capture the market early on, in preparation for a meaningful transition”
He further emphasized, “We want to educate and cultivate the market of South Africa and make sure that the South African consumers can catch up with the rest of the world”
Despite the momentum, challenges persist. Limited charging infrastructure, unreliable electricity supply, and higher import duties on electric vehicles compared to traditional combustion-engine cars continue to slow down EV adoption across the continent.
However, the Chinese auto giant remains optimistic. “South Africa is one of the most important automotive markets in the southern hemisphere—and probably the biggest in Africa,” said Chang.
“So it’s a market that we have to look at and see how we can develop the market,” Chang added.
