Tired of ads? Enjoy an ad-free experience by signing up.
👩‍🍳 How we use AI at Tech in Asia, thoughtfully and responsibly.
🧔‍♂️ A friendly human may check it before it goes live. More news here

BYD Korea plans hybrid cars to attract middle-aged buyers

BYD Korea is in talks with its Chinese headquarters to introduce plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). The company aims to target middle-aged consumers who are hesitant about fully electric cars, said Cho In-chul, managing director of passenger vehicles.

After launching the Atto 3 SUV in January, which saw over 1,000 preorders in its first week, the company now aims to expand beyond its initial younger customer base.

While a specific timeline for PHEVs is not set, BYD Korea plans to launch two more electric models this year: the Seal sedan and Sealion 7 SUV.

Rather than prioritizing immediate sales, BYD Korea focuses on improving brand perception, especially regarding EV safety and reliability.

Recognizing skepticism toward Chinese products, the company will boost visibility through events like the Seoul Mobility Show in April.

BYD has led global sales of eco-friendly vehicles since 2022, producing its 10 millionth unit in November 2024.

Recent BYD developments

Timeline
20-Feb-2025 ☁️ BYD switches cloud operations from AWS to Google, Alibaba
  • BYD shifts cloud services to Google and Alibaba.
  • Annual AWS spending exceeded US$10 million.
11-Feb-2025 🚗 BYD shares soar after DeepSeek’s driver-assist launch
  • BYD shares hit record high of 345 HKD.
  • Company partners with DeepSeek for AI system.
11-Feb-2025 🚗 BYD to launch 21 EVs with ‘God’s Eye’ driver assistance
  • BYD to launch 21 models with ‘God’s Eye’ system.
  • System available in three tiers for various brands.
03-Feb-2025 🚗 BYD, Changan expand operations in Thailand
  • Chinese firms boost FDI in Thailand by 10%
  • BYD opens first EV factory, holds 41% market share

Stay ahead in Asia’s tech landscape

You've reached your 2 free content limit for the month. Sign up for free to read the full story.

🏄 For casual readers / 👶 Free

Basic

US$0

Free forever

Get instant access to this article and more every month

0 premium content

Unlimited news briefs

5

5 articles

Ad-free reading experience

Just US$0 per day

⌛Sign up in 20s. No payment details needed.

📖 For learners / 👍 Starter

Lite

US$4.92/month

Billed annually at US$59/year

Get instant access to this article and more every month

4

4 premium content

Unlimited news briefs & articles

Ad-free reading experience

Just US$0.17 per day

Cancel anytime

Our subscriber community includes professionals from these companies:

Stay updated on the go with our mobile app.

Get latest insights with smoother, more personalized experience through TIA mobile app.