BYD Plans India EV Market Reentry with Atto 2 Amid Improving Ties

Chinese electric vehicle maker BYD is preparing a renewed push into the Indian market, facilitated by warming diplomatic ties between New Delhi and Beijing and the resumption of business visas for Chinese nationals. BYD's India Managing Director, Ketsu Zhang, along with senior executives and engineers, is expected to visit India soon to assess the state of BYD's southern India factory, restart training programs, and engage with government officials. The company plans to launch the Atto 2, a compact electric SUV priced below 2 million rupees ($22,690), making it its cheapest offering and directly competing with local automakers like Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, and new entrants such as Vinfast's VF6. Despite a 70% import duty on vehicles, BYD aims to price the Atto 2 competitively to capture market share in one of the world's fastest-growing auto markets. BYD also seeks regulatory approval to increase its import quota beyond the current 2,500 units annually. This strategic move comes as BYD faces challenges in other markets and looks to capitalize on improved Sino-Indian relations following years of diplomatic friction.