BYD records 15,000 vehicles on NZ roads
Do you want to buy a new car? Head to AutoMuse ProAdvice
The BYD Atto 3 is a popular car for Kiwis. Photos: BYD NZ
Chinese automotive brand BYD has passed the 15,000-vehicle milestone in New Zealand, four years after officially entering the local market.
BYD Auto NZ says that figure marks a rapid expansion for a brand that launched locally in 2022 with a relatively small model range and dealer network.
The company has since expanded its network to 25 locations across the North and South Islands, with further dealerships planned to open during 2026.
The BYD Seal 6 is also popular with Kiwis.
Its line-up has also grown significantly and now includes the Atto 1, Atto 2, Atto 3, Dolphin, Seal, Seal 6, Sealion 5, Sealion 6, Sealion 7, Sealion 8 and Shark 6. The range covers both battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, including passenger cars and the Shark 6 ute.
BYD Auto NZ general manager Warren Willmot says reaching the milestone represents a significant change for a relatively new entrant to the New Zealand market.
“Reaching 15,000 vehicles on New Zealand roads is a monumental moment for BYD,” he said.
“It represents thousands of individual decisions by Kiwi families and businesses to back a brand that didn't exist here four years ago.”
The BYD Shark 6 ute has been a hit for tradies.
The company's growth has coincided with increasing consumer interest in electric and electrified vehicles, although the New Zealand market has also become considerably more competitive, with established manufacturers and a growing number of Chinese brands introducing EVs and hybrids.
BYD says it plans to continue expanding its New Zealand dealer and service network, while adding further models to its range.
Additional vehicle shipments and new models are scheduled for the remainder of 2026 and beyond.
The BYD Sealion is one the brand’s biggest passenger car
