BYD has announced the start of work on its new factory complex located in Camaçari, Bahia, where the Ford plant previously operated. The 4.6 million m2 site was acquired for R$287.8 million, in a transaction with the State Government of Bahia. In the first stage of the work, 26 new facilities are to be built, including production warehouses, a test track and other structures, occupying an area of approximately 1 million m2.
The complex’s old facilities will be adapted to accommodate suppliers who will contribute to the production of components and parts for the new vehicles. The entire factory complex will be built from scratch. Present at the celebration ceremony were the president of BYD Brasil, Tyler Li, Alexandre Baldy, special advisor to the company, and the governor of Bahia, Jerônimo Rodrigues, as well as other state and municipal authorities.
WHICH CARS WILL BE PRODUCED?
The first phase of the works is expected to be completed and start operations between the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025, with a production capacity of almost 150,000 units per year.
Initially, the vehicles produced at the complex will be the BYD Dolphin, BYD Song Plus, BYD Yuan Plus and the BYD Dolphin Mini.
National production will enable more competitive prices and expand opportunities for Brazilian consumers to purchase an electric vehicle
“As we look to the future, we are excited about the opportunities this new plant will generate. Not only in terms of employment, but also in terms of developing new technologies and contributing to a more sustainable economy. We are committed to operating responsibly, respecting the environment and contributing to the well-being of our community. May this be the beginning of a prosperous and successful chapter. Together, we will build a bright future for our company, our employees and the entire community”, says Tyler Li, president of BYD Brazil.
“BYD will contribute to the economic development of the state of Bahia, generating 10,000 jobs, and will bring Camaçari back into the national spotlight of Brazilian industry, transforming the Bahian city into a hub for attracting diverse suppliers linked to the entire production chain, from parts and accessories to service providers, giving priority to local companies”, points out Alexandre Baldy, special advisor to BYD.
The national production of the vehicles is strategic both for the pockets of Brazilian consumers and for BYD. This is because the factory in Camaçari will allow tax exemption on the cars, as well as increasing the volume available in the country. In July 2023, the manufacturer announced an investment of R$3 billion in Brazil over the coming years.
