BYD’s Ro-Ro Vessel Departs With 7.3K Cars Bound for Europe

BYD has shipped 7,273 new-energy vehicles to Europe aboard its Jinan roll-on/roll-off vessel, departing from Nantong Port in eastern China’s Jiangsu province for destinations including Italy and Spain.

The shipment is dominated by plug-in hybrid models, underscoring BYD’s growing focus on Europe’s rapidly expanding hybrid market.

Vehicles onboard include the Dolphin G DM-i, ATTO 2 DM-i, plus the Seal U DM-i, known in China as the Song Plus DM-i.

The Dolphin G DM-i made its European debut on May 26. Positioned as a B-segment plug-in hybrid hatchback, the model offers more than 1,000 km of combined range. Sales are set to begin in June; deliveries will start in autumn.

The ATTO 2 DM-i has gained traction quickly since its European launch in February. Exports reached 8,000 units in April alone. The model ranked as Spain’s best-selling plug-in hybrid vehicle in February.

Demand continues to outpace supply. Delivery lead times have stretched beyond four months in France and to five to six months in Spain.

The Seal U DM-i remains BYD’s core plug-in hybrid offering in Europe. The model sold more than 72,000 units in 2025, making it Europe’s best-selling plug-in hybrid vehicle.

Trade policy has further strengthened the appeal of hybrids. The European Union imposes a 17% anti-subsidy tariff on China-built battery-electric vehicles, while plug-in hybrids face a lower tax burden. The pricing advantage has become increasingly evident.

BYD’s hybrid-focused export strategy reflects current market demand, regulatory realities, and Europe’s uneven charging infrastructure development.

The company’s overseas business continues to gain momentum. BYD exported 135K vehicles in April 2026, up 70% year-on-year, setting a new monthly record.

Exports during the first four months exceeded 450K units. Overseas sales now account for more than 40% of BYD’s total deliveries.

Europe has emerged as a key growth engine for Chinese automakers. Chinese brands captured more than 15% of the European market in April, marking a record high.