BYD is recalling over 115,000 cars in China due to technical issues impacting both hybrid and fully electric models.
On Friday, BYD submitted a recall proposal to the State Administration for Market Regulation, citing issues related to design and battery components. The plan encompasses two distinct recalls, involving over 115,000 vehicles, specifically the Tang plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and Yuan Pro electric models.
The initial recall targets roughly 44,000 units of BYD’s earlier Tang hybrid series manufactured from March 2015 to July 2017, due to a defective drive motor controller that could lead to circuit board overheating and, in extreme cases, total power loss.
The second, more extensive recall covers about 70,000 Yuan Pro electric crossovers built between February 2021 and August 2022. These models have a battery waterproofing issue that could result in reduced power output. BYD intends to resolve the problem by applying a sealant to the battery casing.
Bloomberg reports that Chinese authorities have recently ramped up efforts to improve electric vehicle safety, including proposing new standards for door handle designs amid rising concerns over recessed or concealed handles linked to fatal incidents.
These recalls come at a crucial moment for BYD, as the company pushes to grow its global presence while dealing with intense price competition in the domestic market. Analysts caution that the pressure to reduce costs amid China’s escalating EV price war may be resulting in lapses in quality control, drawing increased regulatory oversight.
The recall follows an investigation by China’s State Administration for Market Regulation. While BYD has previously issued several major recalls, including nearly 100,000 Dolphin and Yuan Plus EVs in September of last year, this marks the company’s largest recall so far.
The announcement also comes in the wake of a downturn in BYD’s domestic performance. In September, the automaker recorded its first monthly sales drop in 18 months and lost its position as China’s best-selling brand. Additionally, the company has lowered its 2025 sales target from 5.5 million units to 4.6 million, citing tough market conditions.
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