BYD Targets Toyota Lead as Honda Ends US EV Production

BYD’s chief executive announced the Chinese electric‑vehicle maker will aim to become the world’s largest automobile producer by sales, overtaking Toyota within five years. The plan relies on rapid growth in Europe, Southeast Asia and Latin America and does not depend on entering the United States, where high tariffs and regulatory restrictions have limited BYD’s presence. BYD sold 4.5 million vehicles last year, while Toyota recorded 10.5 million. BYD’s European market share rose to 2.8% in May, surpassing Ford, Tesla and Nissan, though industry analysts expressed skepticism about the ambitious target.

Meanwhile, Honda said it will cease production of its pure‑electric Prologue SUV in the United States at the end of the year, effectively ending the company’s remaining EV line in that market. Developed with General Motors, the Prologue sold about 39,000 units in 2025, with sales collapsing after the federal tax‑credit phase‑out. Honda will continue to service existing owners but will refocus on gasoline models, marking a significant setback after billions of dollars invested in electrification.