BYD to hire 40000 in Europe

BYD Co. plans to significantly expand its workforce in Europe, aiming to reach around 40,000 employees by the end of the decade, as the Chinese automotive giant seeks to transform from a mere exporter to a major car manufacturer in the region, according to local reports.

Stella Li, vice president in charge of the company’s international business, stated that BYD’s commitment to Europe is “very deep and long-term”. Li noted that the regional workforce will exceed 40,000 people by 2030, in response to inquiries about the company’s European employment plans.

The company will soon have over 10,000 employees in Europe, Li emphasized. This would make BYD one of the largest foreign employers in the European automotive industry. As the world’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer by market share, BYD is increasing its investments in the region while Chinese exporters face heightened scrutiny from European authorities.

Li revealed that BYD plans to hire employees from the automotive industry and beyond, including workers laid off by European companies. They are currently assessing the impact of the EU’s new restrictions on hybrid vehicle imports, which include a cap of 350,000 Chinese hybrid cars per year.

Meanwhile, the Shenzhen-based company is in the final stages of preparing to launch its first European factory, located in Hungary, with mass production expected to start in the fourth quarter. Li also stated that BYD is considering building a factory in France, where the company already has a well-established distribution network.

BYD has partnered with major French groups, such as Bymycar, Emil Frey, and Bodemer, which handle sales and after-sales service for the company’s vehicles in major cities across the country. As of the start of the year, BYD had 90 retail locations in France, covering approximately 60% of the country. The company’s expansion plans are a key part of its strategy to increase its presence in Europe.

Li’s announcement about the company’s European employment plans highlights BYD’s commitment to the region. The company’s plans to hire employees from various industries and its consideration of building a factory in France demonstrate its intention to establish a strong presence in Europe. With its partnerships with major French groups and its expanding retail network, BYD is well-positioned to achieve its goals in the region.