Oz could make or break this brand's dreams

One brand has set its sights on making a serious dent in the Aussie car market.

China's BYD is aiming to sell 1.6 million vehicles outside its domestic market in 2026, according to Reuters, and Australia will be integral to achieving this. 

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BYD already sells an extensive and diverse range of vehicles in Australia, with more still in the works.

Its all-electric Dolphin small hatchback is the currently the brand’s cheapest offering, starting from $29,990, before on-road costs, however this will likely soon change with the introduction of the smaller Atto 1.

Beyond its sprawling electric vehicle (EV) line-up, the company also has a strong selection of plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models, including the Sealion 6 SUV, and the increasingly popular Shark 6 ute, which alone boasts more than 15,000 sales so far in 2025. 

Reuters claims that BYD has built at least eight mega factories in China in the last five years, but has been expanding this to overseas locations such as Hungary, Turkey and Brazil. 

By the end of 2025, the brand plans to begin production of some of its Dolphin hatchbacks in Hungary.

All BYD models currently offered in Australia are produced in China, for reference.

With the Chinese car market becoming increasingly segmented thanks to brands like Geely and Leapmotor, BYD faces a tough sell domestically.

It is looking to overseas markets to tap into potential new sales, pursuing a top-three place in the Australian new car market by the end of 2026. 

BYD’s desired sales increase would represent a substantial shift from its sales figures outside of China in 2025, which are expected to sit at around one million. Its sales in Europe, North America and South East Asia account for one-third of the company's total sales.

BYD is not immune from the fierce competition of its domestic market in Australia, with other Chinese manufacturers targeting the segment as well. 

Brands such as Chery and GWM have plenty of options for buyers particularly in the sought-after family SUV category, and MG has a similarly affordable and enticing vehicle line-up.