On May 22, the Chinese Daily Economic reported that BYD is discussing possibly building a factory in France with the French government.
On the direct question, a BYD spokesperson told CarNewsChina that the company is studying multiple locations for its first European EV plant. The final location should be decided this year.
According to sources, BYD is also actively discussing with German and Spain representatives in its search for a suitable location. The production start is set for 2025 when the first made-in-Europe BYD electric PVs will roll for the production line.
The original information comes from the Les Echos report, where the French minister confirmed ongoing negotiations with BYD. According to a previous report from IT House, BYD’s European strategy preferred building new plants instead of taking over existing ones.
On November 2021, BYD halted production of its French e-bus plant due to low demand, and the factory was closed shortly after. At that time, BYD stated they wanted to remain active in the French market despite the closure.
In December last year, BYD’s Vice President Li Ke confirmed that the European plant is in the making. She also noted that the company may build two factories to manufacture electric PVs in Europe.
The article is being updated.
Disclaimer: Hat tip provided by Chinese Daily Economic
Keyword: BYD is in talks to build an EV factory in France. Germany and Spain are also in the game