BYD is the biggest car brand you’ve never heard of, says Bernard Byrne, Brand Manager at BYD North Dublin, part of the MSL Motor Group.

WHEN DID BYD ENTER THE IRISH MARKET?

In February 2023 Motor Distributors Ltd announced that they had secured the importation and distribution rights for BYD passenger cars for Ireland. Motor Services Ltd were appointed as their retail partners for Dublin and Cork. Their tag line has been ‘The biggest car brand you’ve never heard of’.

I am over 16 years in the motor trade and have never witnessed a car brand take off as successfully as BYD. Our showrooms have been extremely busy each week, and we have had to employ more staff to meet with demand. It has been an exciting time for everyone involved.

WHAT IS THE BYD MODEL RANGE?

The EV market has risen from 13% in 2022 to 19% in 2023 and we believe that it will remain on a steady incline over the next few years. BYD’s plan is to have a car that covers every segment of the market.

With the BYD Dolphin, ATTO 3 and Seal, these products give the Irish EV consumer fantastic infotainment systems, battery technology, and sleek and spacious designs at an extremely competitive price.

WHAT IS THE MAIN COMPETITIVE USP FOR BYD CARS?

BYD is the first automaker in the world to have full expertise and intellectual property in the three core technologies of EVs - batteries, electric motors and electronic controls. With this industry leading technology, sleek designs and extremely competitive price structure, BYD will gain market share rapidly in Ireland.

WHAT NEEDS TO HAPPEN TO MEET THE GOVERNMENT’S ROADMAP TO EV ADOPTION?

Maintain all existing grants and stay focused on improving infrastructure.

WHAT IS YOUR EXPECTATION FOR THE NEW CAR MARKET IN 2024?

With the extension on benefit in kind tax breaks, VRT relief and SEAI grants, this makes it a good time to make the switch to electric cars.

Photo: Bernard Byrne, Brand Manager at BYD North Dublin. (Pic: Conor McCabe)