BYD is advancing its initiative to establish a $1 billion manufacturing facility in Indonesia. A senior executive announced on Monday that the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer intends to finalize the construction of the plant by the end of this year.
Eagle Zhao, who serves as BYD's president director in Indonesia, stated, “Actually every single progression of our local manufacturing is quite smooth and also on the track. Meanwhile, we will also keep our commitment, which is by end of 2025, we will complete the construction works of our factory in Indonesia.”
This development highlights the company's ambition to gain a foothold in a market traditionally dominated by Japanese automakers. Zhao indicated that the long-term vision for the plant includes catering to the export market.
The facility is being constructed within an industrial complex located in Subang, West Java, and is expected to have an annual production capacity of 150,000 electric vehicle units.
“So our manufacturing, once its started we will put the priority and majority for the domestic markets. Meanwhile, we will never stop to thinking about the exportation (export) market as well," Zhao added.
2024 marked BYD's inaugural year of sales in Indonesia, with trade data revealing that the company sold over 15,400 units. From January to November, BYD emerged as the leader in battery-powered electric vehicle sales, capturing approximately 36% of the market share.
Zhao expressed optimism that the new plant would begin producing vehicles shortly after construction is completed.