Chinese automaker BYD marked the production of its 15 millionth new energy vehicle at a ceremony held at its Jinan factory. The milestone model was the 15,000th unit of the DENZA N8L, a six-seat SUV destined for European markets.
Highlights
- BYD reached 15 million NEV production in just 13 months after hitting 10 million units
- 2025 production through November totaled 4.182 million vehicles, an 11.3% year-over-year increase
- Overseas sales reached 917,000 units in 11 months, exceeding full-year 2024 totals
- R&D investment for Q1-Q3 2025 reached RMB 43.75 billion (5.3 billion euros), up 31% year-over-year
Production Acceleration Timeline
BYD introduced its first new energy vehicle, the F3DM plug-in hybrid, in 2008. The company required 13 years to manufacture its first million NEVs. The acceleration from 10 million to 15 million units took just 13 months, with the 14 millionth vehicle completed on October 9, 2025.
The Jinan factory, which began mass manufacturing three years ago, hosted the production ceremony. The N8L utilizes BYD’s Super Hybrid technology and e³ (“e-cube”) platform, shared with the DENZA Z9GT shooting brake launching in Europe in 2026.
Global Expansion and European Presence
BYD currently operates in more than 110 countries and regions worldwide. The company’s European footprint includes:
- 33 countries with active sales operations
- 1,000 retail points of sale
- Plans to double dealership count by end of 2026
Research and Development Investment
BYD’s cumulative R&D investment now exceeds RMB 220 billion (26.65 billion euros). Recent developments span battery chemistry, packaging innovations, intelligent driving assistance systems, and megawatt Flash Charging technology. The Flash Charging system, designed to match refueling speeds, is scheduled for European introduction in 2026.
The company ceased production of internal combustion vehicles and has maintained the top position in new energy passenger vehicle sales in China for 10 consecutive years.
For more information, visit www.byd.com.
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