BYD eyes France for new plant as it plans wider European expansion

BYD is considering France as a potential location for a new factory as the Chinese carmaker prepares to expand its manufacturing footprint in Europe. The plans were outlined by BYD Executive Vice President Stella Li at the 2026 Paris Motor Show.

Li also said BYD's first European passenger car plant, located in Hungary, is expected to enter mass production in the fourth quarter of this year.

Under its longer-term plans, BYD intends to establish a second and third car factory in Europe, as well as a battery manufacturing plant.

BYD expects its European workforce to exceed 40,000 employees by 2030. The expansion points to a broader shift in the company's European strategy, from exporting cars to building a more substantial local manufacturing and operational presence.

However, BYD stressed that its factory plans remain under evaluation. The locations and timelines for any additional facilities have yet to be confirmed, with further details subject to official announcements.