BYD aims to overtake Toyota as world’s biggest carmaker despite US market ban

Chinese automaker BYD says it can become the world’s largest vehicle producer and surpass Toyota within five years, even without access to the United States market. The company sold 4.5 million cars last year, far below Toyota’s 10.5 million, but it is betting on organic growth and aggressive expansion in Europe, Southeast Asia and Latin America.

In Europe BYD’s market share rose to 2.8 % in May, roughly double the previous year, and its first‑half 2026 sales in France reached 13,935 units, nearly matching its full‑year 2025 volume. About 40 % of European sales are to short‑term renters, but the brand expects broader consumer uptake as new models and fast‑charging infrastructure roll out.

In Mexico BYD accounts for roughly 4 of every 10 electrified vehicles sold, delivering 95,000 hybrid and electric units in the first half of 2026, of which 35,000 were BYD models. Chinese brands now hold the third‑largest origin share in the Mexican market. BYD’s global exports also grew, with 175 000 cars shipped abroad in June 2026.

Company executives stress that the U.S. ban on BYD vehicles, imposed by high tariffs and software restrictions, will not hinder the long‑term goal of becoming the top automaker worldwide.