BYD Confirms Talks to Acquire European Auto Plants

[Global Expansion] BYD has confirmed it is in discussions with Stellantis and other European automakers regarding the acquisition of idle factories in Europe.

Core Strategy: Prioritizing Italian Facilities, Preferring 100% Wholly Owned Operations

On May 14, BYD confirmed to China Securities Jinniu that it is negotiating with Stellantis and other European automakers to take over idle plants in Italy, France, and Spain, explicitly favoring a 100% wholly owned operational model to independently deploy its e-Platform 3.0 technology for producing entry-level electric vehicles.

Strategic Rationale: Accelerating Localization to Counter Tariffs and Competition

This move aims to complement its Hungarian base from north to south, rapidly covering Western and Southern European markets. Meanwhile, BYD plans to launch production by end-2026 at its Manisa plant in Turkey, with an annual capacity of 150,000 units, serving Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa as a second export hub.

Industry Impact: Shift Toward Wholly Owned Models in China-Europe Auto Collaboration

Amid widespread pressure on European automakers, BYD is rejecting joint ventures and emphasizing independent operations, highlighting a strategic upgrade in its overseas expansion—from 'hitching a ride abroad' to 'building its own factories overseas.'