BYD VP Hits Back at Criticism: 'They Are Extremely Wrong'

Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD is emerging as a significant challenge to Europe's established automotive industry, rapidly capturing market share and even surpassing Tesla in new registrations in Europe during 2025. While the European market has largely stagnated, BYD has seen exceptional growth, with registrations increasing by approximately 270% in 2025 alone.

BYD's competitive edge stems from its comprehensive industrial ecosystem, which includes not only vehicle manufacturing but also in-house production of batteries, power electronics, software, and components. This vertical integration allows BYD to control costs and shorten development times, posing a direct threat to legacy European automakers like Volkswagen and BMW, many of whom are facing layoffs and production cuts.

The company is further expanding its European footprint by starting production at its own factory in Hungary in the fourth quarter and expressing interest in acquiring existing factories from struggling European manufacturers. This aggressive expansion strategy highlights BYD's ambition to become a dominant player in the European market within the next five years.

However, BYD's rise is intertwined with geopolitical tensions. The US Department of Defense recently added BYD to a list of Chinese companies deemed to have ties to the military, raising security concerns. BYD's Vice President, Stella Li, strongly refuted these claims, stating, "Yes, definitely. They are wrong. Extremely wrong. We are a privately owned company. We have zero influence from the government, zero influence from the defense department." She asserted that the allegations lack basis and that the company is preparing a robust response.

Adding to the complexity, BYD is subject to an additional 17% EU tariff on electric vehicles imposed since late 2024, following an EU Commission finding that Chinese EV manufacturers benefit from state subsidies. Despite these challenges, BYD continues its rapid ascent in the European market.