AUTOMOTIVE
BYD on mission to make lasting impact
Leading Chinese brand BYD is driving the future of electric mobility with cutting-edge vehicles, a growing dealer network, and innovative infrastructure solutions to meet the needs of South African consumers.
By Tarryn-Leigh Solomons
BYD South Africa – an industry leader in electronics, automotives, renewable energy, and rail transit – has swiftly positioned itself as a key player in the country’ s automotive market. With a clear vision to lead the transition to clean, sustainable mobility, the company, led by MD Steve Chang, is focusing on not just the introduction of electric and hybrid vehicles, but also on expanding the dealer network, addressing infrastructure challenges, and educating South African consumers about the future of transport.
In a recent interview with SA Business Integrator, Chang discussed the company’ s growth trajectory, its plans for the future, and the challenges that lie ahead in the South African market. In just over two years since its official launch, BYD SA has made significant strides, with a growing workforce of just under 50 people and a commitment to providing affordable, high-quality electric and hybrid vehicles to a wider consumer base.
Expanding dealer network beyond cities The brand’ s initial focus in South Africa was on urban areas, but the company soon recognised that demand for electric vehicles wasn’ t confined to cities.“ We have a very aggressive dealer network expansion underway,” says Chang.“ People in rural areas, especially in farming communities, are eager to buy electric vehicles. These communities already use solar panels and energy storage systems, so it’ s a natural next step for them to move towards battery electric vehicles( BEVs) and plug-in hybrids.”
A milestone moment came on 4 December 2025, when BYD SA unveiled the Sealion 5 at a high-profile launch event in Muldersdrift.
Chang highlights the growing demand for electric vehicles outside traditional urban hubs, with farmers and rural residents pushing for more local access to clean mobility options.“ It’ s exciting to see the shift towards EVs outside the cities,” he adds. This expansion strategy includes opening new dealerships in these underserved areas, ensuring that electric vehicles are accessible to all citizens, regardless of location.
Each new model launch, says Chang, is a project that represents the passion of the BYD team.“ Every model we bring to market is like a baby to us,” he says.“ BYD is the only company truly developing the new energy vehicle market. Before we entered the space, there was little focus on electric and hybrid vehicles.”
Delivering global standards to SA BYD’ s commitment to quality is evident in its decision to bring international standards to the South African market.“ What you see here in South Africa is exactly what you would see on the international stage,” Chang explains.
60 sabusinessintegrator. co. za