Chinese carmaker BYD plans to open factory in France

France is among the European countries where BYD is considering building a plant. According to vice-president Stella Li, "France is on the shortlist". BYD's vice-president says she has "simple objectives". Stella Li wants "people in France to think that BYD is a French company. I want them to like it". She was speaking at the opening of the Paris Motor Show, where the executive from the Chinese manufacturer announced that BYD is considering setting up operations in France. "France is on the shortlist," she said. "We are looking very closely at the possibility of setting up a plant in France." According to Stella Li, BYD "will try to open a second and a third plant in Europe". The group's vice-president spoke as BYD prepares to open a plant in Hungary by January 2027. China has also agreed, on Friday, to "moderate" the flow of hybrid vehicles bound for the EU. According to BYD's vice-president, the Chinese group "has a strong commitment in Europe" and the carmaker intends "to become a local company in every region of the world". A dealer network gaining ground in France BYD is already relying on a well-established distribution network in France. The Chinese manufacturer has forged partnerships with major French automotive groups such as Bymycar, Emil Frey and Bodemer. These dealers handle sales and after-sales service for its vehicles in the country's main cities. As of 1 January 2026, BYD had 90 sites open in France and covered around 60% of the country. The brand is continuing to expand by drawing on local players that are already well established.