Gasgoo Munich-BYD will continue to increase investment in Europe, promoting local production and deepening its long-term footprint in the region, Executive Vice President Li Ke said at the Paris Motor Show.
Image credit: BYD
BYD' s first European plant, in Hungary, is in the final stages of preparation, with mass production slated to begin in the fourth quarter.
In addition to the Hungary site, BYD plans to build a second and third European factory — a move Li said underscores the company' s long-term commitment to the region. The automaker has yet to announce final locations or a timeline for the new plants.
France has made the shortlist due to its competitive energy costs. Li said BYD is seriously evaluating the possibility of a French plant. The company' s European push goes beyond manufacturing: it also involves building out local dealer networks and forging closer ties with French consumers. Li even hopes French buyers will embrace BYD as a local brand.
Spain is also a potential location for the new plants.
Beyond capacity, BYD plans a major hiring push — targeting roughly 40,000 local employees by 2030. The expansion signals an accelerated shift from Chinese exporter to homegrown European manufacturer.
BYD' s commitment to Europe runs deep, Li said. The workforce should cross 10,000 soon and top 40,000 by 2030, making BYD one of the continent' s largest non-domestic automotive employers.
To fuel that growth, BYD will recruit from across the auto industry and beyond — and hasn't ruled out hiring workers shed by legacy European automakers.
As European regulators scrutinize Chinese exporters, BYD is investing more capital into the region, pivoting from vehicle exports toward local production and operations.
Last week, China and the European Union reached a broad consensus that includes capping imports of Chinese hybrid vehicles. Li said BYD is still assessing the impact of those curbs, noting that key details remain scarce.
