In March, the Chinese automaker initiated a TV advertising push in Slovakia. Then, in April, they officially debuted their lineup in the country with three vehicles: two all-electric models (the Seal and Sea Dragon 7), along with an additional plug-in SUV hybrid variant (Seal U DM-i).
The manufacturer intends to swiftly expand operations in Slovakia. Their plan involves progressively establishing 20 sales and service centers across the country—three in Bratislava, two in Košice, and additional locations in various regional areas—all set for completion this year. The inaugural center will launch in Bratislava come April. Consequently, Slovakia ranks among the dozen nations where BYD aims to incorporate itself within its strategic framework by the close of 2025.
What are the prices
Even with the EU tariffs, prices will stay competitive but notably above those in China. The entry-level price for the Seal U DM-i hybrid variant will begin at €38,490. This particular model comes in two configurations: a less expensive rear-wheel-drive edition offering a 570-kilometer range priced at €45,690; meanwhile, a pricier all-wheel-drive option providing a shorter 520 kilometers of driving distance starts from €50,790.
The entry-level Sealion 7 model starts at €47,690, while the range-topping variant comes in at €56,390. This price point positions it as a significant investment due to its advanced technology. Given that this is from an unfamiliar Chinese brand, these prices appear rather ambitious. BYD aims to attract buyers through comprehensive warranties.
The company provides a six-year or 150,000-kilometer warranty for all cars; however, the guarantee covering the battery, electric motor, and control electronics extends further, lasting up to eight years with an additional mileage limit of 200,000 kilometers.
BYD is set to rapidly expand in Slovakia, beginning with a dealership opening in Bratislava later this month, soon to be joined by additional locations in Kosice, Trnava, Nitra, Zilina, and Banska Bystrica, with plans to establish a network of ten dealerships overall.
Challenger to Tesla
Slovakia has seen Chinese vehicles before; models from the MG and Dongfeng brands have been available in the nation for quite some time now. Nonetheless, BYD is poised to become the most significant competitor to American brand Tesla.
BYD is constructing an assembly plant in Hungary with production slated to commence in October of this year. Additionally, they intend to initiate operations at a second facility in Turkey starting next year. Together, these facilities are projected to have a total output capacity of 500,000 vehicles annually.
There are rumors circulating that the company plans to construct an additional plant in Europe, with Germany seeming like the top contender for this location.