Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Zimpapers Correspondent
Zimbabwe’s drive towards sustainable transport took a significant step forward on Friday with the launch of Build Your Dreams (BYD) vehicles at Tsapo Group of Companies in Harare, as stakeholders highlighted the role of electric mobility in supporting economic growth.
Speaking at the launch, BYD Zimbabwe general manager, Mr Clayton Chimudima, said the company was introducing technology-driven solutions that are reshaping the global motor industry.
“I am going to talk to you today about a company which specialises in technology and is actually redefining the motor industry. It is our pleasure to be working with them,” he said.
Mr Chimundima said BYD sold 2,2 million vehicles last year across Southern Africa, Australia, Japan and Europe, demonstrating the company’s growing international presence.
He said BYD Zimbabwe was operating under the 3S model — sales, service and spares — to ensure comprehensive after-sales support, supported by locally trained technicians.
“We actually have our technicians who are well-versed with the cars that we have and we are pushing for a drive-free strategy.”
Mr Chimundima said the strategy integrates 100 percent electric vehicles with solar energy, enabling motorists to charge vehicles at home or at work.
He said the company has introduced fully electric models such as the Dolphin Surf and Atto 3, with the Atto 3 offering a range of about 420 kilometres on a full charge.
Plug-in hybrid models, including the Shark 6 and Sea Lion 6 offer extended range, with the Shark 6 capable of travelling up to 670 kilometres.
Mr Chimudima acknowledged the support of financial institutions and the Government through the reduction of import duties as key enablers of the electric vehicle rollout.
“We cannot solve 21st-century problems with 19th-century solutions,” he said.
Tsapo Group of Companies Group commercial manager, Mr Godfrey Pasipanodya, said the partnership with BYD aligns with the Government’s “Look East” policy and Zimbabwe’s sustainable development agenda.
“We listened to the Government policy of looking East and it has been profitable to us,” he said.
Mr Pasipanodya said BYD is a global leader in vehicle innovation and that its technology supports Zimbabwe’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly the push for green corporate fleets.
“This is why we are pushing corporates to go green in terms of their vehicles and fleets,” he said.
Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mr Zhou Ding, said BYD’s entry into the local market reflects strengthening economic ties between Zimbabwe and China.
“I am very happy to attend the launch ceremony of BYD and to know that BYD is working with local partners to launch new models,” said Ambassador Zhou.
He recalled a visit to BYD headquarters in Shenzhen two years ago with President Mnangagwa, during which the President test-drove a BYD vehicle.
“It shows how strong BYD is in growing their business,” he said.
Ambassador Zhou said BYD’s investment would create employment, generate tax revenue and provide Zimbabweans with access to cutting-edge new energy vehicle technology.
He said Zimbabwe’s 6,6 percent economic growth rate recorded last year presents strong opportunities for further investment and business expansion.
