Byd überholt Tesla in Europa, aber das ist nur der Anfang

Die europäische Szene für Elektrofahrzeuge (EVs) hat eine massive Transformation, wobei die anfänglichen Anzeichen von Veränderungen aus China herrühren. Der Autohersteller BYD startet einen beispiellosen Produktangriff und führt neue EV-Modelle mit einer Rate ein, die auf dem Kontinent noch nie gesehen wurde, und übertrifft Tesla im monatlichen Umsatz von Batterie-Elektrikfahrzeugen.

The company known as „Build Your Dreams“ (BYD), a prominent Chinese firm, is increasing its influence and posing a significant challenge to longstanding European manufacturers through a multi-faceted approach. This approach involves offering competitive pricing, a wide array of models, and a strong dedication towards local manufacturing.

Data from April 2025 reveals that BYD outperformed Tesla for the first time in battery-electric vehicle (BEV) sales, with 7,231 units sold compared to Tesla’s 7,165. This significant milestone comes as BYD expanded its presence in Europe beyond select markets, starting late in 2022.

As a researcher examining the latest arrivals in the electric vehicle market, I’m excited to delve into the new BYD Dolphin Surf. This European adaptation of their popular Seagull model, now available in the UK, boasts an attractive starting price of £18,650. Placing it squarely among some of the most budget-friendly electric vehicles on the market, such as the Dacia Spring, which starts at a competitive £14,995. The base Dolphin Surf Active model equips a 30 kWh battery promising a range of approximately 137 miles, while premium trims boast a 43.2 kWh battery capable of extending the range to an impressive 200 miles.

It would be an error to underestimate BYD as a manufacturer of only affordable electric vehicles. The company has grand aspirations in the premium and luxury markets as well. By late 2025, they plan to introduce their high-end Denza brand in Europe. Their debut model, the Z9GT, is designed to rival the Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo, with a powerful tri-motor setup and an electric version boasting 952 horsepower. The design for this vehicle was overseen by former Audi and Lamborghini design chief Wolfgang Egger, demonstrating BYD’s intent to challenge Germany’s top-tier automakers.

In under a year, six unique models have been swiftly introduced, catering to the essential market sectors across Europe. At a recent product unveiling, Alfredo Altavilla, a special advisor for BYD in Europe, boldly stated that he doubts any other product onslaught has ever taken place in Europe as assertively as what BYD is currently executing. This aggressive launch strategy encompasses not just electric vehicles but also plug-in hybrids, tailored to regions with less developed charging infrastructure.

This new European strategy involves significant financial commitment towards local manufacturing. BYD is almost finished constructing its first European passenger car factory in Szeged, Hungary, with production set to commence by the end of 2025. The Hungarian facility aims to produce an initial 150,000 vehicles annually, with further plans for a second plant in Turkey to ultimately boost output to 500,000 units each year. To facilitate this expansion, BYD is also setting up a European headquarters and research and development center in Hungary.

As thousands of BYD electric cars and plug-in hybrids, such as the new Dolphin Surf, travel to dealerships in the UK, Italy, Spain, and Belgium on BYD’s own transport ships, one thing is evident. The traditional dominance of European automotive industries is encountering its toughest competition in years. With an unyielding pace of product launches, a deep grasp of market segmentation from budget to luxury, and manufacturing facilities within the EU, BYD is poised to redefine the electric car landscape in Europe.

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2025-06-26 22:02