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Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giant BYD is ramping up its presence in South Africa, aiming to nearly triple its number of dealerships by 2025 as part of a broader strategy to strengthen its position in the continent’s most competitive car market.
This expansion aligns with a rapid increase in demand for new energy vehicles (NEVs)—including battery electric and plug-in hybrids. Since launching in South Africa in 2023 with its all-electric ATTO 3, BYD has established 13 dealerships. That figure is projected to grow to 20 by the end of 2024 and reach 35 by 2025, according to Steve Chang, BYD Auto South Africa’s General Manager.
The company’s growth reflects a broader shift toward electric mobility in South Africa, where NEV sales more than doubled in 2024 to 15,611 units, up from 7,782 the previous year, according to NAAMSA.
BYD’s local lineup now includes six models, including recent additions like the plug-in hybrid Shark pickup, hybrid SEALION 6, and fully electric SEALION 7 SUV—vehicles designed to attract both traditional and eco-minded buyers through a dual-powertrain approach.
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As competition heats up from other Chinese automakers such as Chery, GAC, and GWM, BYD’s growing dealership network plays a critical role in enhancing brand visibility and consumer trust. The company is positioning itself to lead South Africa’s budding EV market as infrastructure, affordability, and awareness continue to improve.