BYD has announced further growth in three developing electric vehicle (EV) markets: Nepal, Malaysia, and Cambodia, underscoring the company's global expansion strategy.

Seven models now available in Nepal

BYD has launched the Atto 2 (known in China as the Yuan Up) in Nepal, marking its seventh model in the country. The launch took place on August 19th at the NADA Auto Show in Kathmandu. Prices begin at NPR 4.399 million (US$ 31,325).

The launch follows closely after the Atto 1 (also called the Seagull) was introduced in Nepal on August 6th. Other BYD models available in the country include the Atto 3 (Yuan Plus), Dolphin, Seal, and M6 MPV. Despite its comparatively low cost, the Atto 2 offers a range of 345 kilometres (214 miles) and a larger battery than its Chinese counterpart.

BYD first entered the Nepali passenger EV market in October 2022 with the Atto 3, although the company had earlier introduced the e6 taxi model in 2018.

Assembly plant underway in Malaysia

BYD is establishing a completely knocked down (CKD) assembly plant in Malaysia, with the first vehicles expected to roll off the production line in 2026.

"Malaysia has always been one of BYD's most important markets in Southeast Asia, and today's dual announcement of CKD and the New BYD SEAL marks a new chapter in our journey here," said Liu Xue Liang, General Manager of Auto Sales for BYD Asia-Pacific, at the launch of the new Seal.

The BYD Seal was Malaysia's best-selling electric sedan in 2024 and was officially introduced in February that year. The Premium trim is priced from MYR 171,800 (US$ 40,567), while the Performance variant starts at MYR 191,800.

Store network expansion in Cambodia

BYD is expanding its retail and service presence in Cambodia, where it currently operates seven stores and one service centre. By the end of the year, this will increase to 13 stores and six service centres.

The company is also building a local assembly plant, expected to commence operations by year-end with an annual capacity of 10,000 vehicles.

BYD has sold vehicles in Cambodia since 2020. The Atto 2 and Sealion 5 were launched earlier this year, with the Sealion 7 and M9 expected in October.