BYD drops local importer EVDirect, will distribute vehicles in Australia itself

BYD drops local importer EVDirect, will distribute vehicles in Australia itself

BYD drops local importer EVDirect, will distribute vehicles in Australia itself

BYD Automotive is taking control of its Australian operations from July 2025, dropping EVDirect as its local distributor.

EVDirect will remain involved with the Chinese brand, however, through a minority stake in its retail joint venture with Eagers Automotive Limited, called EVDealer Group.

It has a 20 per cent stake in this joint venture, with Eagers holding 80 per cent. EVDirect CEO David Smitherman will serve as CEO of the joint venture.

BYD Australia and Eagers have signed a term sheet for a new five-year dealer agreement, with an option for a further five-year term.

This term sheet is subject to finalisation of formal documentation between the joint venture and BYD Australia.

Not only does this move preserve the current network of retail and service locations, but it also allows Eagers to expand its retail footprint for the BYD brand, provided BYD Australia approves.

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“This transition is consistent with BYD’s continued global reach into key strategic markets and will strengthen the brand’s capabilities in Australia by leveraging BYD’s global resourcing and expertise,” Eagers Automotive said in a press release.

In its own press release, EVDirect said the move comes a year ahead of schedule.

“Now is the time to further unlock BYD’s immense potential for Australian drivers,” said Luke Todd, chairman and founder of EVDirect and incoming executive chairman of EVDealer Group.

“Phase One proved the BYD brand would thrive here; Phase Two will make new-energy vehicle ownership easier and more accessible than ever,” he added, with EVDirect noting it intends to offer customers more retail locations, shorter wait times, and enhanced after-sales support.

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“As the inaugural importer, EVDirect is extremely proud of the role it has played in the launch of BYD into the Australian market, overseeing what has been one of the most successful new car brand launches in Australian history,” added Mr Todd.