BYD in Brazil Develops Two Exclusive New Cars for the Domestic Market
BYD in Brazil, the Chinese automaker making significant inroads into international markets, continues to expand its footprint with ambitious new projects. After announcing the March 2025 start of assembly for two highly anticipated models—the Song Pro, a hybrid flex plug-in mid-size SUV, and the Dolphin Mini, the first electric car to be mass-produced in Brazil—BYD in Brazil has revealed plans to develop two entirely new vehicles explicitly designed for the Brazilian market. These vehicles are slated for release between late 2025 and early 2026 and will be produced at the company’s state-of-the-art factory in Camaçari, Bahia. The facility, currently under construction, will eventually operate at full capacity, manufacturing up to 12 different models.
A Strategic Move to Dominate Brazil’s Market
Creating Brazil-specific models is a bold strategy for BYD in Brazil, emphasizing its commitment to tailoring its offerings to local needs and preferences. Stella Li, BYD’s CEO for the Americas and recently appointed president of the company in Europe, confirmed the development of these exclusive models during an interview with Autoesporte and Valor Econômico. “Yes! We will have BYD products developed specifically for the Brazilian market,” she said, underscoring the importance of Brazil as a focal point for the company’s Latin American strategy.
Li elaborated that these vehicles are designed to cater to segments yet to be addressed in China, reflecting BYD in Brazil’s adaptability and willingness to innovate for diverse markets. While details about the models remain sparse, this announcement is already generating significant buzz among Brazilian consumers and automotive enthusiasts.
Introducing the “Baby Shark” Compact Pickup
One of the two vehicles under development has been confirmed to be a compact pickup truck, informally called the “Baby Shark.” Designed to rival the immensely popular Fiat Strada, the Baby Shark represents BYD in Brazil’s foray into a segment with immense potential in Brazil and other Latin American countries. The compact pickup truck market is characterized by strong demand, driven by urban consumers seeking versatile vehicles and businesses requiring affordable, durable transportation.
According to Stella Li, the Baby Shark is not just a Brazilian venture but a product with Latin America as its target region. “The [Shark] pickup was already designed with you in mind, as we do not sell pickups in China,” she explained, highlighting the unique nature of this model. The compact pickup is expected to leverage BYD’s advanced drivetrain technology, offering options for both plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs). These features align with Brazil’s growing demand for environmentally friendly vehicles, which benefit from government incentives for cleaner technologies.
Speculation Around the Second Model
While BYD in Brazil has disclosed little about the second model, speculation is rife. Given the brand’s expansive portfolio in Brazil, which includes SUVs, sedans, and light commercial vehicles, the mystery vehicle could fill a gap in the market. Some analysts suggest it might be an intermediate pickup truck positioned between the Shark and the forthcoming Fiat Strada competitor, targeting rivals like the Fiat Toro, Renault Niagara, and Volkswagen Udara. Alternatively, it could be a compact SUV aimed at competing with models like the Fiat Pulse, Renault Kardian, or Volkswagen Tera.
This diversification into pickup trucks and compact SUVs would enable BYD in Brazil to address multiple high-growth segments in the Brazilian market. Regardless of the final form, these models will likely showcase BYD’s hallmark technological innovation, including advanced battery systems and eco-friendly drivetrains.
No Plans for Simplified Hybrid Systems
True to its innovative ethos, BYD has reiterated that its focus will remain on PHEV and BEV technologies. According to Stella Li, the company has no plans to simplify its offerings by introducing traditional hybrid systems like Toyota’s HEVs (used in models such as the Corolla and Corolla Cross) or mild hybrid systems (MHEVs) similar to those found in Fiat’s Pulse and Fastback T200 Hybrid. Instead, BYD in Brazil is doubling down on its expertise in electrification to solidify its position as a leader in the global shift toward sustainable transportation.
This commitment to advanced hybrid and fully electric systems underscores BYD’s intent to differentiate itself in a competitive market. The Brazilian government’s push for cleaner energy and reduced emissions further supports this strategy, making PHEVs and BEVs increasingly attractive to consumers.
The Growing Role of the Camaçari Plant
BYD’s factory in Camaçari, Bahia, is set to play a crucial role in the company’s Brazilian operations. With a capacity to produce 12 models, the plant signifies a significant investment in local production capabilities. This facility will manufacture vehicles for the domestic market and serve as a hub for exports to other Latin American countries. The decision to establish this plant reflects BYD Brazil’s confidence in Brazil’s largest automotive market in Latin America.
Launching locally designed and manufactured vehicles further strengthens BYD’s ties to the region, creating jobs and contributing to the local economy. It also aligns with the Brazilian government’s goals of attracting foreign investment and fostering industrial development.
What Lies Ahead for BYD in Brazil
Introducing two new vehicles explicitly tailored for Brazil represents a significant milestone for BYD in Brazil, marking its evolution from a foreign automaker to a deeply integrated player in the Latin American market. By investing in local production and developing models that cater to unique regional demands, BYD is positioning itself as a formidable competitor in Brazil’s automotive landscape.
As the countdown begins for the late 2025 and early 2026 launches, anticipation is building among consumers and industry experts alike. Whether the Baby Shark pickup truck or the mysterious second model, these vehicles are expected to embody BYD’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and market adaptability. With its eyes set on the future, BYD in Brazil is poised to redefine the automotive market in Brazil and beyond.