BYD is making significant strides in expanding its presence overseas, particularly in Brazil. The introduction of the affordable Seagull EV (Dolphin Mini) priced at around $20,000 (99,800 BRL) has propelled BYD to the forefront of the EV sales surge in the country. As BYD navigates through a potential new import tax, the question arises whether they can sustain their momentum in the Brazilian market.
BYD leads EV offensive in Brazil as sales surge
BYD premiered the Seagull EV last May and within less than a year, they managed to sell over 280,000 units in China. This success has surpassed their other popular models like the Dolphin and Yuan Plus (Atto 3 overseas).
Recently, the Seagull, also known as the Dolphin Mini outside China, was launched in Brazil and Mexico. The model offers two variants with NEDC ranges of 186 miles (300 km) and 236 miles (380 km) respectively.
Despite its compact size, the vehicle boasts a spacious interior with a modern design that provides ample room according to Stella Li, CEO of BYD Americas.
Featuring a 10.1″ rotating infotainment screen compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the vehicle is also equipped with a voice assistant system called “Hi BYD.” Additionally, it can quickly charge from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes using DC fast charging.
The introduction of the Dolphin Mini is expected to further solidify BYD’s foothold in the market, following the success of the Dolphin model. With prices starting at $20,000 (99,800 BRL) for the base version and $23,200 (114,800 BRL) for the long-range model, BYD’s affordable EVs are already making a significant impact in Brazil.
Recent data from Brazil’s Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services (via Reuters) indicates a 46.4% increase in passenger car imports, with Chinese vehicles driving 40% of the surge, marking a 450% increase compared to the previous year.
The ministry’s statistics coordinator highlighted that the surge in vehicle imports from China is largely driven by electric and hybrid engines.
With Brazil’s president, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, planning to raise import taxes that have been at zero since 2015, the future of EV imports in the country faces uncertainty.
Already subject to a 10% tax imposed in January, EV imports will face an increased import tax of 18% in July and 35% in July 2026. Hybrids will also see a rise in taxes from 15% to 25% in July and eventually 35% in 2026.
According to the Brazilian Electric Vehicle Association, the sales of electrified vehicles surged by 145% in the first quarter of 2024 to 36,090 units. Among the top performers, BYD led the pack with 14,939 units sold, followed by GWM with 5,735 units, and Toyota with 5,049 units.
BYD’s expansion doesn’t stop there, as their Dolphin Mini is set to make an entrance in Chile this week.
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