Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer BYD is eyeing the Canadian automotive market, according to a regulatory filing made earlier this month. This move comes as Canadian officials consider imposing tariffs on vehicles imported from China, following the footsteps of the United States and the European Union¹.

 Tariffs and Strategic Entry

Canada's consideration of tariffs on Chinese-made EVs aims to align itself with its allies against what the West views as a heavily subsidized Chinese industry. Ottawa has opened a month-long public consultation period to weigh its response, expressing concerns about China's unfair support for the EV sector potentially affecting planned EV investments and Canada's automotive transformation¹.

While the document doesn't specify a timeline for BYD's plans, it discusses the potential application of tariffs on EVs. Additionally, BYD Canada aims to begin selling passenger EVs in Canada. The company's entry into the Canadian market represents a strategic step to develop market share, even amid rising trade barriers.

 BYD's Regional Moves

In May, BYD unveiled the Shark, a mid-size hybrid-electric pickup truck, in Mexico. Interestingly, despite new U.S. tariff hikes on Chinese EVs, BYD's regional chief clarified that the company was not targeting the U.S. market¹.

As the Canadian EV landscape evolves, BYD's entry could significantly impact the segment and attract federal scrutiny. Keep an eye on how this unfolds, as the Canadian market becomes an important battleground for electric mobility.