• The first model to be produced at BYD's Hungarian factory will be the Seagull. Europe's first batch of 200-300 1-MW chargers will be deployed next year.
• BYD plans to open over 2,000 retail outlets across Europe by the end of 2026.

BYD (HKG: 1211, OTCMKTS: BYDDY) will commence production at its Hungarian passenger vehicle plant later this year, and the company will also introduce its 1-MW ultra-fast chargers to Europe as it expands its footprint there.

The semi-official Weibo account @小迪快报 shared the plan today, saying the Seagull electric hatchback will be the first model to be produced at BYD's Hungarian facility.

BYD announced in December 2023 that it would build a passenger new energy vehicle (NEV) production base in Szeged, Hungary -- its first in Europe.

The company signed a land pre-purchase agreement with the Szeged government on January 30, 2024, stating the plant would be completed and operational within three years, primarily manufacturing passenger vehicles for European sales.

In July, a Reuters report indicated BYD would delay mass production at its Hungarian plant until 2026 and operate below capacity for at least the first two years.

BYD subsequently responded that the plant's construction progress aligns with expectations and was proceeding as planned, with production scheduled to commence by the end of 2025.

On March 17, BYD unveiled its ultra-fast charger supporting up to 1-MW charging power, claiming it can add 2 km of range to an EV in 1 second or 400 km in 5 minutes.

The company showcased its 1-MW ultra-fast charger at the ongoing IAA Mobility auto show in Munich, Germany.

The 1-MW ultra-fast charging technology will debut in Europe in models from the Denza sub-brand, @小迪快报 said, adding that the first 200-300 1-MW ultra-fast charging stations in Europe will be operational next year.

BYD's passenger vehicles currently cover 32 European countries and regions, with a product portfolio spanning 13 models from hatchbacks to mid-to-large SUVs.

The company plans to open over 2,000 stores across Europe by the end of 2026, with Germany's network reaching 120 outlets by year-end, according to the blogger.