BYD, the second most popular electric vehicle brand in Australia after Tesla, has announced plans to construct a series of “Megastores” across the country. This is part of a deal between EVDirect, BYD’s Australian distributor, and established car distributor, Eagers Automotive.
The initial Megastores are scheduled to open in Sydney and Brisbane by early spring this year. They aim to provide a novel experience for potential EV buyers by offering educational insights about the BYD brand and its offerings.
“The BYD Megastore concept initiates a fresh chapter of automotive retail. It presents customers with a unique, immersive, and educational journey into the BYD brand and its wide array of products,” EVDirect CEO Luke Todd stated.
BYD has successfully launched the widely accepted Atto 3 electric SUV, with nearly 7,000 units delivered till the end of May. It further plans to introduce four more BYD models in Australia by the close of 2024.
“Our first year of BYD product deliveries has been extremely successful, both in volume and nationwide expansion. With four more BYD models scheduled for release and delivery in Australia by the end of 2024, we anticipate further exponential growth of the BYD brand,” Todd added.
One of the planned launches includes the eagerly awaited BYD Seal sedan, spotted on several occasions being tested across the country.
Eagers, as part of the recently announced deal, will invest an additional $70 million for an extra 31% stake in the joint venture, EV Dealer Group Pty Ltd, thereby raising its share to 80%.
The increased investment enables the joint venture to introduce dedicated BYD service and fulfilment centres in major Australian cities. The first centre, expected to open in August 2023, will be located in Mascot, NSW. It aims to prepare and deliver up to 100 EVs daily, reflecting the growing demand for EVs in Australia.
This investment follows BYD’s launch of Australia’s most affordable EV in June, with the first deliveries anticipated in September this year.
When asked about the reception of the BYD Dolphin since its launch last month with a price tag of $38,890, before on-road costs, Todd shared, “It’s exceeded our expectations. The pre-order volume was higher than we had forecasted, which is always a good indication. This is the first vehicle that challenges the internal combustion engine market.”
Notably, the BYD Dolphin offers premium paint colours at no additional cost to the buyer, amplifying its affordability appeal to potential EV switchers.
On the topic of total sales, Todd revealed that the brand had outperformed all its targets and was focusing on growth. “We’ve exceeded every target and now we’re entering a new phase,” he said.
With the success of BYD Atto 3 sales and the impending launch of the Dolphin hatchback, the second-best-selling EV brand aims to expand its operations for existing and future customers.
The newly announced BYD Megacentres, along with dedicated BYD service and fulfilment centres, will contribute to this growth, further promoting EV adoption on Australian roads.
