BYD is expanding production operations at its Camaçari complex in Bahia, Brazil, with a goal of reaching 50% local content in vehicles built there by January 2027. The plant is adding painting, stamping and body-welding processes as it moves toward a more complete manufacturing operation.
BYD senior vice-president Alexandre Baldy said the company has approved more than 400 suppliers, with another 250 in negotiations. The company plans to bring 17 major system suppliers into the industrial complex and is encouraging suppliers to establish operations nearby, which it says could improve responsiveness and reduce costs.
The factory already assembles battery packs and makes electric motors, helping reduce reliance on imported components. However, the article says 85% of the lithium battery cells will still come from China. Baldy said BYD is interested in transferring cell-production technology to Brazil, though he linked that prospect to diplomatic decisions.
The company also intends to use Camaçari for exports. Baldy said BYD is still awaiting delivery plans for 50,000 vehicles each to Argentina and Mexico, which are to be built at the Brazilian plant. The localization drive is intended to improve competitiveness in Brazil as well as support sales in other markets.