China’s largest automaker, BYD, is accelerating its expansion across Europe with plans to double its sales network on the continent by the end of 2026, according to a senior company executive. The move marks one of BYD’s most ambitious pushes yet as it intensifies competition with established European and global automakers.
Speaking at an event in Frankfurt, Maria Grazia Davino, BYD’s regional managing director for Europe, said the company expects to have 1,000 points of sale across Europe by the end of 2025, and is aiming to double that figure the following year.
“To compete effectively, we need to be close to customers and build strong local relationships,” Davino said, noting that proximity and accessibility will be key advantages as the brand scales. Davino oversees BYD’s operations in German-speaking markets, Eastern Europe and Scandinavia—regions seen as strategically important for the company’s European growth.
BYD’s expansion plan is supported by its “long-term localisation strategy” for Europe. The company already operates in 29 European markets, and its first manufacturing plant on the continent—located in Hungary—is expected to open soon. The automaker is also preparing to build a second facility in Turkey and is evaluating options for a third European production hub, with Spain emerging as a leading candidate.
The push comes amid surging demand for BYD vehicles in Europe. In the first nine months of 2025, the company’s sales in the region more than tripled, reaching 80,807 units, compared with the same period a year earlier. The significant jump follows BYD’s decision to broaden its offerings by introducing both plug-in hybrid models and fully electric vehicles to European consumers.
Davino emphasised that strengthening BYD’s footprint in Europe requires a sustained and well-coordinated effort.
“Localising in a mature market like Europe is a major undertaking,” she said. “It demands deep expertise, significant investment and a commitment of resources across all levels of the organisation.”
With its rapidly expanding network, growing production base, and rising sales momentum, BYD is positioning itself as one of the most aggressive and fast-growing new players in Europe’s increasingly competitive automotive landscape.
