BYD Starts To Outsell UK’s Biggest Car Brands?! | Fully Charged Show Podcast
May 19, 2025
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In this conversation, Steve Beattie, Head of Sales at BYD UK, shares insights into BYD's impressive journey from battery manufacturing to becoming a top electric vehicle maker. He explains the innovative Blade Battery technology and its emphasis on safety. The discussion highlights the company’s ambitious plans for affordable EVs, particularly in Europe, and the competitive challenges posed by Chinese manufacturers. Furthermore, Steve explores the growing acceptance of electric cars in places like Australia and London's evolving electric bus fleet.
BYD has gained a notable 2% market share in the UK automotive sector due to its rapid adaptability and innovative strategy.
The unique integration of BYD's blade battery design not only enhances vehicle safety but also exemplifies the company's commitment to technological advancement.
BYD's evolving dealership model fosters a knowledgeable network, creating a supportive environment that encourages potential buyers to consider electric and hybrid vehicles.
Deep dives
BYD's Rapid Growth in the UK Market
BYD has quickly established itself as a notable player in the UK automotive market, gaining significant recognition among consumers in a short span. Initially perceived as a fringe contender when it entered Europe, public awareness has surged, with even young individuals recognizing the brand. In just two years of selling cars, BYD has managed to achieve a 2% market share, which is impressive, given its recent launch in the region. The streamlined approach of the company, drawing on lessons from their extensive experience in electric buses, has paved the way for their success in rolling out electric vehicles.
Innovative Battery Technology and Safety
BYD's commitment to battery safety and innovation is evident through their cutting-edge technology, specifically the blade battery design, which is seamlessly integrated into the vehicle's chassis. This unique integration enhances structural integrity during accidents, providing an additional safety layer compared to traditional battery placements. The company conducts rigorous testing to ensure their batteries do not catch fire even under extreme conditions, demonstrating a strong focus on safety. Additionally, advancements such as the 'God's Eye' system highlight BYD's continuous efforts to prioritize both vehicle safety and user experience.
Transitioning to Electric Vehicles
The transition from traditional combustion engines to electric vehicles is becoming increasingly seamless, especially through BYD's diverse offerings, including plug-in hybrids. Their approach, particularly the DMI hybrid technology, enables users to benefit from electric driving while still having the support of a gasoline engine for longer distances. This has proven to be an effective strategy for consumers who are hesitant to fully commit to an electric vehicle. As more drivers adopt these models, it helps in gradually familiarizing them with electric technology and the benefits associated with it.
Consumer Engagement and Dealership Models
BYD's dealership model is evolving to adapt to the increasing demand for electric vehicles, emphasizing a more engaged and knowledgeable dealer network. Dealers are encouraged to fully invest in promoting BYD's electric and hybrid vehicles, creating a unified experience for customers. The approach is shifting away from traditional sales tactics that may discourage electric vehicle purchases, fostering a more supportive environment for potential buyers. The network is optimistic about their partnership with BYD, signaling confidence in the brand's future in the UK and Europe.
Future Independence and Manufacturing in Europe
BYD is strategically planning to establish manufacturing capabilities in Europe to facilitate the growing demand for electric vehicles. With a factory proposed for Hungary, the company demonstrates its commitment to producing vehicles closer to its customer base while considering the regional market's unique needs. BYD prioritizes building cars in the region where they are sold, which reflects a forward-thinking approach to reduce logistics costs and enhance customer satisfaction. Additionally, the company's successful entry into markets like South America shows its adaptability and readiness to expand further while maintaining strong production values.
In this episode of the Fully Charged Show Podcast, Robert Llewellyn is joined by Steve Beattie, Head of Sales at BYD UK, to unpack the meteoric rise of the world's largest EV maker. From humble beginnings in battery manufacturing to selling over 4 million vehicles globally, BYD is rapidly transforming the electric vehicle landscape—and Europe is next. Steve and Robert discuss how BYD went from mobile phone batteries to EVs, the secrets behind BYD’s battery safety tech (hello, Blade Battery!) and the need for EV affordability, charging access, and the challenge of equitable adoption. Enjoy! @fullychargedshow @EverythingElectricShow @byd.unitedkingdom This episode is sponsored by Duracell Energy! Enter the Free Prize Draw to WIN your own Duracell Energy bunny here: https://www.duracellenergy.com/givaway/ Get a free quote for solar and battery from Duracell Energy here: https://bit.ly/4i9ERid Free Prize Draw Terms & Conditions can be found here: https://www.duracellenergy.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Prize-Draw-2025-Puredrive-Energy-Ltd.pdf Why not come and join us at our next Everything Electric expo: https://everythingelectric.show Check out our sister channel: https://www.youtube.com/@fullychargedshow Why are our episodes now sponsored? https://fullycharged.show/blog/dan-caesar-on-x-insta-youtube-and-why-we-made-a-contro[…]s-on-fully-charged-everything-electric-electric-vehicles-uk/ Support our StopBurningStuff campaign: https://www.patreon.com/STOPBurningStuff Become a Fully Charged SHOW Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/fullychargedshow Become a YouTube member: use JOIN button above Buy the Fully Charged Guide to Electric Vehicles & Clean Energy : https://buff.ly/2GybGt0 Subscribe for episode alerts and the Fully Charged newsletter: https://fullycharged.show/zap-sign-up/ Visit: https://FullyCharged.Show Find us on X: https://x.com/Everyth1ngElec Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/fullychargedshow To partner, exhibit or sponsor at our award-winning expos email: commercial@fullycharged.show Everything Electric CANADA - Vancouver Convention Center - 5th, 6th & 7th September 2025 Everything Electric SOUTH (UK) - Farnborough International - 10th, 11th & 12th October 2025 Everything Electric AUSTRALIA VIC - 14th, 15th & 16th November 2025 #fullychargedshow #everythingelectricshow #homeenergy #cleanenergy #battery #electriccars #electricvehicles #byd
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