Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD has announced a major expansion plan to nearly triple its dealership network in South Africa. The company’s South African General Manager, Steve Chang, stated on June 5th, that BYD intends to increase its presence from 13 current locations to between 30 and 35 dealerships by the end of 2026. The move is part of BYD’s broader strategy to secure early market share in Africa’s largest automotive economy amid rising competition.
Chang emphasized that the expansion is timed with a regional uptick in demand for new energy vehicles (NEVs), which include fully electric and plug-in hybrid models. BYD first entered the South African market in 2023 with its ATTO 3-battery electric SUV. In April 2025, the automaker introduced additional models, such as the SEALION 6 hybrid, the SEALION 7 pure electric SUV, and the Shark plug-in hybrid pickup, solidifying its dual-powertrain strategy in the region.
South Africa’s NEV sales nearly doubled year-over-year, rising from 7,782 units in 2023 to 15,611 units in 2024, according to data from the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA). Despite infrastructure challenges like limited charging stations, power instability, and high import duties, BYD remains optimistic about the long-term outlook. “We want to educate and cultivate the market of South Africa and make sure that the South African consumers can catch up with the rest of the world,” Chang said.
Other Chinese automakers such as GAC, Chery, and Great Wall Motors are also expanding into South Africa, intensifying competition. However, BYD believes its early entry, brand visibility, and diversified offerings will provide a competitive edge. “South Africa is actually one of the most important automotive markets in the southern Hemisphere,” Chang explained. “It’s probably the biggest market in all of Africa.”
BYD has extended its footprint to 16 countries across the continent, including Benin, Tunisia, Madagascar, Ethiopia, and Rwanda. With this dealership expansion, BYD aims to solidify its presence in Africa’s emerging NEV sector while anticipating policy shifts and consumer adoption trends in the years ahead.
