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The Previously Discredited Chinese Manufacturer BYD Leads Electric Car Sales in Brazil with Models Like the Dolphin and Song Plus. Understand How It Surpassed the Competition and Conquered the Market.
The Chinese manufacturer BYD (Build Your Dreams) was underestimated by many Brazilians, considered by some as synonymous with low-quality cars. But in 2025, this scenario changed completely. The brand, headquartered in Shenzhen, made a surprising comeback and today leads electric car sales in Brazil, with a standout presence for the models Dolphin and Song Plus.
Driven by an aggressive expansion strategy, strong investment in technology, and a competitive pricing policy, BYD has established itself as one of the most desired brands in the national automotive sector. In this article, you will understand how the Chinese manufacturer went from being the target of jokes to becoming a reference among the best-selling electric cars in Brazil.
The Rise of BYD: From Unknown to National Phenomenon
When BYD began to venture into the Brazilian market, around 2015, its vehicles still faced resistance, mainly due to prejudice against Chinese cars and distrust regarding durability, safety, and after-sales service.
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However, the turnaround began with robust investments in proprietary technology, an assembly line operating in Brazil, and the repositioning of the brand as a global leader in electrification. By 2023, the manufacturer had already surpassed Tesla in the volume of 100% electric vehicle sales worldwide — and this credential was decisive for its advance on Brazilian soil.
BYD Surpassing Tesla
According to data from the last quarter of 2023, released by Counterpoint Research and confirmed by Bloomberg, BYD surpassed Tesla in global electric vehicle sales for the first time, considering only 100% electric models (BEVs). The Chinese manufacturer delivered 526,000 electric vehicles in the fourth quarter of 2023, compared to 484,000 units from Tesla.
This surpassing marks a symbolic moment in the race for global industry dominance, with BYD benefiting from lower production costs, control over its battery supply chain, and a strong presence in Asia, Europe, and Latin America — while Tesla struggles with rising prices and increasing competition.
BYD also leads the Chinese market, the largest consumer of electric cars in the world, with over 33% market share in 2024, consolidating itself as the new global reference in automotive electrification.
Best-Selling Electric Cars in Brazil: BYD Dominates the Ranking in 2025
According to the latest data from the ABVE (Brazilian Electric Vehicle Association) and Fenabrave, BYD already leads the ranking of best-selling electric cars in Brazil, with its models Dolphin and Song Plus featuring among the top five by a wide margin.
Partial Ranking of Best-Selling Electric Cars in 2025 (Until May):
- BYD Dolphin
- BYD Song Plus
- GWM Ora 03
- Volvo EX30
- Tesla Model Y
The Dolphin is currently the best-selling electric car in Brazil, with an unbeatable proposition: 95 hp motor, range of up to 291 km in the PBEV cycle, high-tech interior, and a price below R$ 150,000. Meanwhile, the Song Plus DM-i, a plug-in hybrid SUV, has won the hearts of Brazilians for combining performance, luxury, and economy.
Why Is BYD Winning? Strategies that Changed the Game
The rise of BYD was not a matter of chance. It results from a series of coordinated actions that combined technological innovation, commercial intelligence, and adaptation to the Brazilian market.
Competitive Pricing and Cutting-Edge Technology
BYD significantly reduced the cost of its vehicles by manufacturing its own batteries (Blade Battery), which are globally recognized for their safety, durability, and energy density.
In addition, the aggressive pricing of its models — with the Dolphin below R$ 150,000 and the Song Plus around R$ 210,000 — made the brand much more accessible than European or North American rivals.
Expansion of Dealerships
From fewer than 10 stores in 2022, BYD surpassed 150 dealerships in 2025 in Brazil, covering almost all capitals and major urban centers. This facilitated access to vehicles and after-sales service, reducing initial consumer resistance.
Effective Marketing Campaigns
BYD understood how to communicate with the Brazilian public. It invested in campaigns that highlight sustainability, connectivity, and cost-effectiveness, always with the support of influencers, specialized media, and public test drives.
Dolphin: The Compact Electric Car That Became an Urban Phenomenon
The BYD Dolphin was the turning point for the brand in Brazil. Officially launched in 2023, the 100% electric hatchback redefined the entry segment of electric mobility.
With a futuristic look, surprising interior space, full digital dashboard, connectivity via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and practical range for urban use, the Dolphin has become a symbol of modernity and conscious status.
Technical Specification of the BYD Dolphin:
- Electric motor with 95 hp and 18.3 kgfm of torque
- Range: up to 291 km (PBEV)
- Fast charging in up to 30 minutes (30 to 80%)
- Average price: R$ 149,800
Its success was so great that, in 2025, BYD launched the Dolphin Mini, even more compact and priced around R$ 99,000, reaching a new audience.
Song Plus: Plug-in Hybrid SUV That Outmatches Gasoline Competitors
The BYD Song Plus DM-i is an SUV that directly challenges models like the Jeep Compass, Toyota Corolla Cross, and even the Tiguan.
With a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain that combines 50 km of electric range with a combustion engine for longer distances, the Song Plus delivers excellent fuel consumption, comfort, and power — all at a competitive price.
Highlights of the Song Plus:
- 1.5 gasoline engine + electric motor
- Combined range: over 1,000 km
- City fuel consumption: up to 25 km/l (with charged battery)
- Average price: R$ 209,800
The model offers a premium level of finish, leather seats, panoramic sunroof, 360° cameras, autonomous braking, and adaptive cruise control. In other words: luxury technology at the price of a mid-range SUV.
BYD Factory in Brazil: A Milestone for the Electric Sector
Another crucial factor for the success of the Chinese manufacturer was the announcement of the BYD factory in Camaçari (BA), where Ford previously operated. With plans for national production starting in 2025, the brand intends to locally manufacture the Dolphin, Song Plus, and even new models like the King and Seal.
The initiative reduces taxes, improves the final price to consumers, and increases access to maintenance, reinforcing the brand’s long-term commitment to the country.
According to BYD itself, the investment exceeds R$ 3 billion and is expected to generate more than 5,000 direct and indirect jobs in Bahia and the region.
Comparison: BYD vs Competitors in Brazil
| Manufacturer | Best-Selling Model | Range (km) | Price (R$) | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYD | Dolphin | 291 | 149,800 | 100% electric |
| GWM | Ora 03 | 300 | 150,000 | 100% electric |
| Volvo | EX30 | 340 | 219,950 | 100% electric |
| Tesla | Model Y | 430 | 360,000 | 100% electric |
| BYD | Song Plus | 1,000 (combined) | 209,800 | Plug-in hybrid |
BYD leads comfortably in cost-effectiveness, whether in the entry segment with the Dolphin or in the SUV segment with the Song Plus.
What to Expect from BYD in the Coming Years?
BYD’s journey in Brazil is just beginning. For the coming years, the brand has already announced new launches, including:
- BYD Seal (sports electric sedan)
- BYD King (hybrid sedan priced below the Corolla)
- New line of electric buses and trucks for public fleets
Additionally, the increase in the dealership network, local manufacturing, and expansion of popular models are set to establish BYD as the leading electric car manufacturer in the country by 2026.
BYD has proven that prejudices can be overcome with strategy, quality, and innovation. From discredited manufacturer to market leader, its journey reveals how the Brazilian automotive industry is being transformed by electrification.
With accessible, reliable products well adapted to the national consumer’s taste, the Chinese manufacturer is leading the movement of the best-selling electric cars in Brazil, breaking paradigms and driving the transition to more sustainable mobility.
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