In the wake of a year marked by remarkable sales achievements, BYD has not rested on its laurels. The company's investor briefing revealed an optimistic forecast, with sales expected to soar by more than a fifth in the coming year. This projection is based on the impressive milestone of 3 million units sold in the previous year, a staggering 62% increase from the year before. The company now sets its sights on selling at least 3.6 million rechargeable vehicles in the current year, signaling a relentless pursuit of growth and innovation.
Amidst the backdrop of this growth trajectory, BYD has also hinted at a more audacious target of 4 million cars for the year, as reported by an unofficial source. While this figure may seem ambitious, it underscores the company's confidence in its strategic direction and the burgeoning demand for electric vehicles.
BYD's journey in the electric vehicle sector has been nothing short of historic. The company recently celebrated the sale of its 7 millionth plug-in electric car, a testament to its enduring commitment to sustainable transportation. With this momentum, it is projected that the cumulative sales of BYD's rechargeable vehicles will surpass the 10 million mark in the latter half of the year, a monumental achievement that will further cement the company's position as a leader in the electric vehicle industry.
The significance of this milestone cannot be overstated, as it not only reflects the company's past successes but also its potential to shape the future of mobility on a global scale.
BYD's product portfolio is a balanced mix of all-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. This diverse offering has allowed the company to cater to a wide range of consumer preferences and needs. In the upcoming year, it is anticipated that the company will maintain this equilibrium, with projections indicating the sale of at least 1.8 million all-electric cars. This strategic diversity in product offerings is a key factor in BYD's ability to adapt to market demands and consumer trends.
The company's approach to balancing its electric and hybrid vehicle sales demonstrates a keen understanding of the market and positions BYD to capitalize on the growing shift towards environmentally friendly transportation options.
BYD's aspirations extend far beyond its domestic market. The company has set a bold target to double its overseas sales to half a million units. This ambitious goal represents a significant increase from the previous year's exports and would elevate the company's international market share to nearly 14%, assuming total sales reach 3.6 million. Such an expansion would not only enhance BYD's global footprint but also signal a shift in the electric vehicle landscape, with the company playing a pivotal role in driving adoption across borders.
Looking further ahead, BYD envisions its overseas sales reaching the 1 million mark as early as 2025, a clear indication of the company's strategic direction and its commitment to becoming a dominant player in the global electric vehicle market.
May 2024 marks a significant milestone for BYD with the launch of its fifth-generation Dual Mode (DM) plug-in hybrid technology. This innovation promises to revolutionize fuel efficiency, boasting an impressive 78 miles per gallon equivalent when operating with a depleted battery. Moreover, the total range, combining a full charge and a full tank, is expected to reach an astounding 1,240 miles according to the optimistic Chinese CLTC test cycle. This technological advancement is set to progressively permeate through BYD's lineup, adapting to varying market conditions and consumer demands.
The introduction of this cutting-edge PHEV technology is a testament to BYD's commitment to continuous improvement and its pursuit of excellence in the electric vehicle domain. It is anticipated that this new generation of technology will gain widespread popularity and become a hallmark of BYD's innovative spirit.
Wang Chuanfu, the chairman and president of BYD, has offered insightful commentary on the current state of China's plug-in car segment. He describes the market as undergoing a phase of elimination, setting the stage for a competitive showdown that will hinge on scale, cost, and technological prowess. Over the next few years, the share of joint venture brands in China is expected to plummet from 40% to a mere 10%, while local brands, which already command over half of the passenger car sales, are poised to seize an additional 30% of the market.
This strategic landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for BYD, as it navigates the complexities of an evolving market. The company's competitive strategy is clearly focused on leveraging its scale, reducing costs, and pushing the envelope in technology to emerge as a leader in the electric vehicle revolution.