BYD explores India assembly as EV demand strains import limits

Group 1 - BYD is reassessing its strategy in India due to surging demand and import limits affecting growth, considering local assembly options like semi-knocked-down (SKD) assembly [1][2] - The company aims to pursue safety and regulatory approvals for more models as current quotas are constraining growth, with strong sales momentum prompting this review [1][2] - Sales in India increased by approximately 88% last year, reaching around 5,500 vehicles, while import limits cap fully built models at 2,500 units [3] Group 2 - Fully built cars face tariffs of up to 110%, whereas SKD assembly could reduce tariffs from 70% to 30%, making it a more viable option for BYD [3] - BYD has approached Indian regulators to highlight that import ceilings could hinder further growth, noting that inventory sold out in the December quarter [4] - Recent discussions between Ford and BYD regarding a potential battery supply arrangement for Ford's hybrid vehicles indicate a strategic collaboration as Ford shifts focus from electric vehicles to hybrids [4]