BYD plans to bring more models to Japan, including Tang SUV, report says

BYD will bring the Tang SUV to Japan to diversify its product matrix there. The Han and Qin sedans will also be brought to Japan, according to local media.

BYD (HKG: 1211, OTCMKTS: BYDDY) plans to bring more models to Japan, as the Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) giant continues to push forward with its efforts in international markets.

BYD will introduce its 7-seat Tang SUV (sport utility vehicle) in Japan to expand its current product matrix in the country, according to a report today from local media outlet 36kr.

The Tang — the BYD brand’s flagship SUV — will be the fourth type of model BYD introduces in Japan after a compact SUV, a mini vehicle and a sedan, the report noted.

Additionally, BYD’s Han and Qin sedans will also be introduced to Japan, the report said.

BYD announced its entry into Japan’s passenger car market on July 21, 2022, and started selling electric vehicles (EVs) in Japan on January 31, 2023, the report said.

The first model offered by the Chinese NEV maker in Japan is the Atto 3, which is known as the Yuan Plus in China and is BYD’s first global model.

Last September, BYD launched the Dolphin compact EV in Japan. In June, BYD launched the Seal EV in Japan.

As of now, BYD’s models available in Japan are all battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and its plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) models are not yet available in Japan.

BYD is currently preparing to launch its new 7-seat Tang model in Japan, the 36kr report said, citing a BYD Japan dealership employee, adding that the BEV version of the 2025 Tang will go on sale in Europe first, priced at 72,000 euros ($80,200).

The Seal is BYD’s most popular model in Japan at the moment, with more than 500 units sold so far since sales began on June 25, the report noted.

The start of sales of the BYD Tang, Qin, and Han in Japan is still uncertain, the report said, adding that there are many variables for BYD in the Japanese auto market, including policies, qualifications, and venues.

The Japanese government has very strict requirements for the qualification of imported cars, the report said.

BYD originally planned to launch the Seal in Japan last year, but it was delayed until June this year due to testing and certification issues, the report said, citing a source.

($1 = 0.8978 euros)

BYD sells 1,084 cars in Japan in H1 2024