Latin America has become a key target for BYD, which has made important moves in different countries in the region to strengthen its operations and expansion strategy.
In Chile, the manufacturer recently announced an agreement to explore lithium, a key element for battery production.
In Mexico, it landed in 2023 with an offer of three electrified cars and distributors already operating in Mexico City and Guadalajara. The goal is to sell 5,000 units this year and multiply that figure fourfold by 2024.
In Brazil, BYD announced that it will be the supplier of a fleet of 300 electric cars that will be available to drivers of the urban mobility services Platform 99, which operates in the country.
The app car has set an important goal aiming at carbon neutrality and fitting in with global trends, starting to electrify its fleet of vehicles. The chosen model is the BYD D1, specially designed for public transport.
Read also: BYD to Begin Ambitious Lithium Processing Project in Chile
Using the Platform
The format of the model is a minivan and the acquisition of the fleet in Brazil will put the D1 on the road on a massive scale in South America for the first time.
Users of the platform will have the possibility to access one of the electric BYD D1s through a rental system. By paying a monthly voucher, it is possible to use the vehicle to provide the service and make a profit.
The rent is estimated at about R$2,000. The strategy is designed so that the drivers of the application have an 80% reduction in operating costs compared to a gasoline-powered car.
It is worth noting that Brazil was the starting point for the Asian manufacturer in South America, to produce electric cars, hybrids and batteries, taking possession of one of Ford’s former plants.
In 2021, Ford completed the closure of three vehicle factories and one engine plant in Brazil, after losing 12 billion dollars in that market.
In Brazil, the Chinese brand also launched the BYD Dolphin electric hatchback with an affordable price proposal.
