By Brazil Stock Guide – BYD (US ADR: BYDDY) said it will begin producing the Song Plus plug-in hybrid SUV in Brazil in 2026, adding a high-volume model to its new industrial complex in Camaçari, in the state of Bahia. The decision advances the company’s plan to localize best-sellers, reduce reliance on imports and strengthen its position in Latin America’s largest car market.
The Song Plus will become the fourth vehicle assembled at the Bahia plant, which began operations just over 60 days ago and is approaching 20,000 units produced. Current output includes the Dolphin Mini electric hatchback, the King hybrid sedan and the Song Pro SUV. The company said the locally built Song Plus will initially keep the same specifications as the imported version sold today, allowing faster ramp-up and simpler supply-chain integration.
Strategy shift outside China
BYD said the Song Plus will continue to be sold in overseas markets even though the model has been replaced in China. Product cycles differ sharply. China favors rapid portfolio renewal. International markets value continuity, scale and predictable aftersales support. Brazil fits the latter profile, supporting a longer lifecycle for the model.
“Bringing the Song Plus to Bahia is a natural step and fully aligned with our long-term strategy for Brazil,” said Alexandre Baldy, senior vice president of BYD Brazil and head of sales and marketing for BYD Auto. “We are expanding our base of Brazilian suppliers and creating jobs as we nationalize production of our top sellers.”
BYD has earmarked R$5.5 billion, about $1.1 billion, for the current phase of construction at Camaçari and has already invested more than R$3 billion, roughly $600 million. Executives said total investment could increase as the group moves toward a long-term production target of 600,000 vehicles a year, turning the site into its main manufacturing hub outside Asia.
What’s at stake
Local production strengthens pricing power as Brazil debates tariffs and local-content rules for electrified vehicles. It also shortens delivery times and reduces exposure to currency swings. Domestic suppliers and logistics operators stand to gain first, while competitors dependent on imports face higher costs.
Brazil has become central to BYD’s global expansion strategy in Latin America. In 2024, the company led electric vehicle sales and captured roughly one-quarter of hybrid deliveries in the country, lifting it into the top tier of passenger car brands.