BYD is rapidly expanding its sales network in Germany, partnering with several dealerships that previously offered Stellantis brands.

Among those leading BYD's European expansion are two Stellantis veterans: Maria Grazia Davino, BYD's European CEO, and Lars Bialkowski, BYD's German CEO.

While career changes are common, Automobilwoche reports that several German Stellantis dealerships have signed up to sell BYD vehicles, reportedly "causing outrage in Russelsheim," Opel's headquarters.

Cars on display at a BYD dealership in Germany. Photo: BYD

Cars on display at a BYD dealership in Germany. Photo: BYD

Despite the negative reactions, Davino stated, "Lars Bialkowski and I did not call dealers we knew beforehand." Instead, she said she chose dealerships because "they see BYD's potential."

Bialkowski added that dealerships reaching out is a "very natural move," as the Chinese brand offers room for growth, meaning more profit potential for dealerships.

BYD sold fewer than 8,600 vehicles in Germany through August, but the brand is expanding quickly. As Davino explained, they had 26 dealerships just a few weeks ago. That number has now grown to "over 50," and BYD aims to reach 120 by the end of this year.

That's significant growth, but BYD is planning for even more in 2026. The company aims for 300 dealerships next year, which Bialkowski says is the minimum needed to capture significant market share.

However, problems have already begun to surface. One dealer said that "BYD's network is growing too fast" and is unsustainable. Automobilwoche also noted that only 12% of registrations are from private customers, suggesting that many sales are to entities like rental car companies.

Despite this, Davino stated that "demand is much greater than our ability to handle it." Bialkowski added that they aim to sell 50,000 vehicles in Germany as soon as possible.

My Anh