Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD is shaking up its Australian operations, cutting ties with third-party distributor EVDirect and taking full control of its sales and distribution starting July 2025. BYD will, however, continue to be sold through Eagers dealers, which is a retail joint venture wherein EVDirect is a minority stakeholder.
This move signals BYD’s long-term commitment to Australia, one of its most successful markets outside China. It also paves the way for faster expansion, better customer support, and even luxury models like the upcoming Denza brand.
But what does this mean for Australian EV buyers? Let’s break it down.
Why is BYD making this change?
BYD has been growing rapidly in Australia, with models like the Atto 3, Dolphin, Seal, and Sealion 6 gaining popularity. The success of the recently launched BYD Shark 6 plug-in hybrid ute could be the one that accelerated this decision. Since the brand’s launch in Australia, EVDirect, an independent distributor, has handled its local operations.
By bringing distribution in-house, BYD can:
- Control pricing and inventory more effectively
- Speed up model launches (including premium brands like Denza and Yangwang)
- Improve after-sales service with a stronger dealer network
This aligns with BYD’s global strategy; similar moves have happened in Europe and other key markets!
What’s next for EVDirect and BYD’s dealer network?
EVDirect isn’t disappearing entirely. Instead, it’s a minority partner in a new joint venture with Eagers Automotive (Australia’s largest auto retailer).
The new setup:
- EVDealer Group (80% owned by Eagers, 20% by EVDirect) will manage BYD’s retail network.
- Existing BYD dealerships and service centers (91 locations nationwide) will remain.
- Expansion is coming—Eagers plans to add more stores to support BYD’s growth.
EVDirect’s Executive Chairman, Luke Todd, called this shift the “next phase” for BYD in Australia, promising shorter wait times, better service, and more showrooms.
What does this mean for buyers now?
- More Dealerships & Better Service – With Eagers Automotive leading retail expansion, expect more locations and smoother customer experiences.
- Faster Model Launches – BYD can now bring new EVs to Australia more quickly.
- Stronger Competition – Tesla, MG, and Toyota will face even tougher rivalry in the EV space.
BYD’s ambitious Australian plans
BYD isn’t just settling for being a niche EV player—it wants to be a Top 10 brand in Australia, competing with giants like Toyota and Hyundai.
Sales snapshot:
- 2024: 20,458 sales (including EVs and PHEVs)
- 2025 (Jan-Apr): 11,974 sales (on track for ~36,000 this year)
- Goal: 50,000+ annual sales soon
What’s coming:
- Denza (luxury sub-brand, arriving late 2024)
- Yangwang (premium SUVs, including the U8—a LandCruiser-sized electric beast)
BYD’s decision also places it alongside other Chinese brands like MG, GWM, and Chery, which already manage their Australian operations in-house.
The bottom line
BYD’s move to factory-backed operations in Australia is a big deal. It shows the brand is here to stay and ready to compete at the highest level. This likely means more choices, better support and increased trust from buyers, and sharper pricing for EV shoppers, making BYD an even stronger contender in Australia’s fast-growing electric car market.
Would you consider going electric with BYD? Let us know below!
Tony
I think it’s a Good move , cutting the middle man out , and hopefully BYD will service when needed not just to make money , put a complete coverage warranty on there cars , not bits and pieces ,so there’s extra money to be made it seemed like double dipping any chance they could , denting BYD reputation, Toyota didnt become the most trusted car brand in the world by charging buyers with everything thing they could , they make great reliable products that last and people Trust
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