Sunita Somvanshi
Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD will take full control of its Australian operations starting July 2025, a year earlier than originally planned. This major shift ends the company’s distribution partnership with EVDirect, which has managed BYD’s presence in Australia since 2022.
The change marks a significant turning point for BYD as it moves to strengthen its position in Australia’s growing electric vehicle market. After delivering over 50,000 vehicles in just three years, BYD now ranks among Australia’s top 10 car brands.
“As the inaugural importer, we are proud to have overseen one of the most successful new car brand launches in Australian history,” said Luke Todd, founder of EVDirect, who will become Executive Chairman of the new retail joint venture.
What’s Changing?
Under the new arrangement, BYD Australia Pty Ltd will directly handle all vehicle imports and distribution. This factory-backed approach mirrors what other Chinese brands like MG, GWM/Haval, and Chery/Jaecoo already use in Australia.
EVDirect won’t disappear completely. The company will maintain a 20% stake in a joint venture with Eagers Automotive called EVDealer Group (EVDG), which will manage BYD’s retail network. Eagers Automotive, Australia’s largest car dealer group, holds the remaining 80%.
Key leadership will also transition to new roles:
- Luke Todd (EVDirect founder) becomes Executive Chairman of EVDG
- David Smitherman (EVDirect CEO) takes over as CEO of EVDG
What This Means for Australian Customers
BYD claims customers will see several improvements from this change:
- Shorter wait times for new vehicles
- Better stock availability through a streamlined supply chain
- Expanded sales and service locations nationwide
- Improved after-sales support
“We are investing heavily in people, systems, and our dealer network to ensure we meet the growing demand for BYD vehicles,” said David Smitherman. “Our goal is to deliver a leading sales and aftersales experience for BYD customers.”
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BYD’s Growing Presence in Australia
Since arriving in 2022, BYD has rapidly expanded its lineup from a single model to six vehicles, including:
- Atto 3
- Dolphin
- Seal
- Sealion 6 (plug-in hybrid SUV)
- Sealion 7 (electric SUV)
- Shark 6 (plug-in hybrid ute)
The Sealion 7 recently became Australia’s best-selling electric car, overtaking the Tesla Model Y.
Taking direct control of distribution will likely speed up the introduction of more models, including vehicles from BYD’s luxury sub-brand Denza later this year. The company’s Yangwang and Fangchengbao divisions could follow.
Behind the Strategy
This move reflects BYD’s global strategy of taking direct control in key markets. As the world’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer, BYD has set ambitious targets, including doubling its overseas sales to 800,000 vehicles in 2025.
The Australian market has proven particularly successful for BYD. The company had been preparing for this transition by hiring local staff in key positions, including aftersales management, public relations, and product planning.
By cutting out the middleman, BYD gains greater control over pricing, marketing, and customer experience – essential factors as the company pursues its bold goal of becoming a top-five brand in Australia within two years.
