15-1-2025 (SINGAPORE) Chinese automotive powerhouse BYD has struck a groundbreaking deal with Southeast Asian ride-hailing giant Grab to supply up to 50,000 electric vehicles, marking a significant push towards sustainable transport in the region.
The partnership, announced yesterday, will see BYD’s electric vehicles become available to Grab’s driver-partners across six Southeast Asian markets, including Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam.
Under the agreement, Grab drivers will gain access to BYD’s impressive electric vehicle lineup, including the premium Denza D9, the popular ATTO 3 (marketed as Yuan PLUS in mainland China), the seal, and the BYD M6. The scheme offers flexible acquisition options, allowing drivers to either lease vehicles through Grab’s fleet partners or secure financing via the platform’s vehicle ownership programme.
In a move to enhance user experience, Grab passengers in Singapore and Thailand will have the option to select “eco-friendly travel” at no additional cost, prioritising rides in electric vehicles. The initiative aims to accelerate the adoption of sustainable transport solutions across the region.
The collaboration extends beyond vehicle provision, with both companies planning to integrate advanced Internet of Things technology. This integration will facilitate improved navigation, route optimisation, and sophisticated data algorithms.
Industry analysts note that this deal will significantly boost BYD’s international presence, adding 50,000 units to its overseas sales figures. The Chinese manufacturer reported overseas sales of 417,000 vehicles in 2024, with strong performance in Brazil, Thailand, Australia, and Israel.
In a parallel development, BYD is set to expand its global footprint further with its imminent entry into the South Korean passenger vehicle market. The company has outlined ambitious plans to introduce four electric models in South Korea this year, targeting combined sales of 10,000 units. The lineup includes the ATTO 3, SEAL, DOLPHIN, and SEALION7, with specific sales targets allocated for each model.
