BYD is making significant strides in Europe with the construction of two assembly plants in Hungary and Turkey. These facilities will not only manufacture a variety of electric vehicles but also produce essential components locally. The company plans to offer both pure electric and plug-in hybrid models to cater to diverse market demands across Europe. Additionally, BYD is developing its groundbreaking Super-e vehicle platform, which promises charging speeds akin to refuelling internal combustion engines. This innovation aims to revolutionize the electric car industry by drastically reducing charging times.

Expanding Production Capabilities in Europe

BYD is establishing two new manufacturing hubs in Hungary and Turkey, each set to assemble four to six different models covering the entire range of their product line. Alongside vehicle assembly, these facilities will also produce electric motors and numerous other components locally, marking a substantial investment in European infrastructure. The decision to include both EVs and PHEVs in production aligns with the varying adoption rates of electric cars across the continent.

The Hungarian plant is expected to commence operations by the end of 2025, followed by the Turkish facility in the first half of the following year. Ms Li emphasized that this dual approach ensures BYD can meet the specific needs of different European markets. Currently, BYD maintains an equal sales balance between EVs and PHEVs in Europe. By producing locally, the company aims to reduce costs and enhance supply chain efficiency, thereby strengthening its competitive edge in the region.

Revolutionizing Electric Charging with the Super-e Platform

BYD’s Super-e platform represents a leap forward in electric vehicle technology, boasting a 1000-volt electronic architecture and next-generation lithium iron phosphate batteries. This platform promises charging speeds far surpassing current standards, aiming to make recharging as swift as refuelling traditional combustion engines. Ms Li highlighted the platform's potential to add an average of 2 kilometres of range per second or 400km in just five minutes.

Although initially showcased under the new Han L saloon and Tang L SUV in China, the Super-e platform's European debut is anticipated within a few years. To fully realize the benefits of this fast-charging technology, BYD plans to establish a network of 4,000 megawatt chargers in China. However, Ms Li was cautious about committing to a similar initiative in Europe. Despite this, the Super-e platform remains a pivotal element in BYD's strategy to lead the electric vehicle revolution, promising to transform how drivers perceive and utilize electric cars worldwide.