BYD, the world’s largest EV maker, just hit a significant milestone at its Thai manufacturing facility. They’ve rolled out their 70,000th vehicle, a shiny new BYD Sealion 6 DM-i plug-in hybrid, from the Rayong Province plant. This isn’t just a number; it’s a clear signal of BYD’s growing global ambition and a smart tactical move in the ever-evolving EV landscape.
Made in Thailand, Headed for Europe
This 960,000-square-meter factory in Rayong, which kicked off operations in July 2024, is a powerhouse, boasting an annual production capacity of 150,000 cars. To put that 70,000-unit achievement into perspective, consider this: the plant assembled its first 10,000 vehicles by November 2024, and then, in a sprint, produced an additional 60,000 units over the next twelve months. The 70,000th car, a Sealion 6 DM-i (known as the Song Plus DM-i in China), was celebrated on November 27, handed over to a proud local employee.
But here’s where it gets really interesting: this Thai operation isn’t just serving the local market. This summer, a significant number of these Thai-made BYD EVs started making their way to Europe. Why? To cleverly sidestep the additional tariffs imposed by the EU. It’s a strategic move, allowing BYD to remain competitive in a fiercely contested market. For context, the Shenzhen-based company faces a hefty 20.7% additional tariff on top of the existing 10% customs duty when exporting directly from China.
CKD: A Smart Play for Global Reach
BYD’s strategy utilizes what’s known as CKD, or Completely Knocked Down, manufacturing. This means vehicles are shipped in parts and then assembled in the destination country. It’s a proven method for automakers to navigate import tariffs and bolster local manufacturing economies. This Thai facility is particularly noteworthy as it’s BYD’s first wholly-owned overseas plant, a bold statement about their commitment to international expansion.
Currently, the Rayong factory churns out five models: the BYD Seal, BYD Atto 3 (also known as the Yuan Plus), the BYD Dolphin, the BYD Seal 05 DM-i, and of course, the BYD Sealion 6 DM-i. By October 2025, BYD had already delivered 100,000 vehicles cumulatively in Thailand, showcasing their dominance in the region.
Beyond Thailand: A European Connection
The cars rolling off the Rayong production line aren’t confined to Thailand’s EV-friendly roads. They’re making quite a journey. In August 2025, 900 units of the BYD Dolphin were exported to Germany, Belgium, and the UK, carried by the BYD Zhengzhou vessel. This export route directly tackles the tariff issue, making BYD’s EVs more accessible and affordable in European markets.
BYD’s global ambitions are clear. With production milestones like this in Thailand, and brands like Yangwang planning to enter Europe, the Chinese EV giant isn’t just building cars; they’re building a worldwide automotive empire. And with the BYD Sealion 06 already seeing strong sales, it’s evident their expanded production capabilities are paying off. This strategic localized manufacturing will likely be a blueprint for their future expansions, establishing a stronger global footprint while deftly navigating trade complexities. It’s a fascinating look at how Chinese automakers are reshaping the international EV market, one localized plant at a time.
