BYD Denies Hyderabad EV Factory Plans Amid India’s Investment Restrictions​

BYD Denies Hyderabad EV Factory Plans Amid India's Investment Restrictions​ BYD

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer BYD has officially refuted reports suggesting plans to establish a ₹8,500 crore (approximately $10 billion) manufacturing facility near Hyderabad, India. The company labeled such claims as “untrue” in a statement released on its WeChat account, emphasizing that no agreement or investment decision has been finalized.

Background: Investment Proposal and Rejection

In 2023, BYD, in collaboration with Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Ltd (MEIL), submitted a $1 billion investment proposal to set up an EV manufacturing plant in Telangana. The proposed facility aimed to produce 10,000–15,000 electric cars annually, starting with BYD’s e6 multi-utility vehicle.

However, the Indian government rejected the proposal, citing national security concerns and the need to scrutinize Chinese investments more closely. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stated that India must be cautious about its strategic interests and who it allows to invest, indicating a restrictive stance towards BYD’s market access

Telangana’s Continued Interest

Despite the central government’s rejection, the Telangana state government has shown continued interest in attracting BYD’s investment. Officials identified 200 acres near Hyderabad for the proposed facility and expressed hope for a revival of the joint venture project, contingent on improved bilateral relations and a softening of the Indian government’s stance on Chinese investments.

The state also offers incentives to promote EV adoption, including a 100% road tax exemption for electric vehicles, aligning with efforts to attract manufacturers like BYD.

Current Status and Outlook

As of now, BYD operates in India through its subsidiary, focusing on electric buses and passenger vehicles, without any large-scale manufacturing ventures. The company’s plans for a manufacturing facility in Hyderabad remain uncertain, given the Indian government’s cautious approach towards Chinese investments.

While Telangana continues to court BYD, the realization of such a project would require a significant shift in the central government’s investment policies and a thawing of India-China relations.

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