BYD boosts NZ supply, caps wait times

BYD New Zealand says it has secured a major increase in vehicle supply to the New Zealand market, as rising fuel prices drive demand for alternatives to petrol and diesel.

The company says additional allocation of battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles has been confirmed following “urgent negotiations” with its global headquarters in China to prioritise local deliveries, with the first shipments due to arrive from May.

General manager Warren Willmot says the move is aimed at giving customers faster access to new energy vehicles.

“Let’s be clear – Kiwis are over being at the mercy of the petrol pump,” Willmot says.

“We did not go to China to have conversations – we went to secure vehicles. And we’ve done exactly that. This is a step-change in supply that means people can act now, not sit on a waiting list while fuel prices climb.”

BYD says it will cap maximum wait times at 90 days, with most customers expected to receive vehicles sooner.

The expanded supply will include new models arriving from May, including the Seal 06 Wagon and Shark 6 plug-in hybrid ute, targeting family and commercial segments.

Willmot says the brand is focused on accelerating the shift away from internal combustion vehicles.

“We’re not here to play on the edges of the market – we’re here to change it,” he says.

“Whether it’s a family car or a work ute, there is no reason to stay locked into petrol or diesel anymore.”

BYD Australasia general manager Wing You says the increased allocation reflects the company’s commitment to the New Zealand market.

“BYD headquarters is fully committed to the New Zealand market and to helping Kiwis move beyond fuel dependency,” You says.

The company says the additional supply is intended to support private buyers, businesses and fleet operators as demand for electric and hybrid vehicles continues to grow.