On July 31st, Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD is gearing up to enter the Canadian market. According to reports, BYD has recently hired lobbyists to assist in selling passenger electric vehicles, establishing new businesses, and navigating potential tariffs on electric cars. Additionally, BYD has begun talks with Canadian car dealerships to prepare for setting up sales channels.

In response to the rapid growth of China's electric vehicle industry, the US government recently imposed a 100% tariff on imported Chinese electric cars and has taken other measures to encourage localization and outsourcing in the electric vehicle sector. Canada is also considering imposing similar tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, following actions by the US and the EU.

Since direct access to the US market is restricted, Chinese electric vehicle companies may seek alternative routes to enter one of the world's largest automotive markets. Analysts in the automotive industry suggest this could involve establishing operations in Mexico and Canada.

It's worth noting that BYD has already made inroads into the North American market. It operates a factory in California, USA, producing electric buses and trucks. In Mexico, BYD sells passenger vehicles including the plug-in hybrid pickup truck "Shark". However, earlier this year, BYD's North America President indicated that the company currently has no plans to enter the US passenger car market.