Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata-Herald Correspondent
THE entry of Chinese electric vehicle giant Build Your Dreams into Zimbabwe, is being viewed as a potential game-changer for the country’s automotive industry, signalling a decisive shift towards clean energy, advanced vehicle technology and sustainable mobility.
The vehicles were officially launched in Harare at Tsapo Group of Companies, with industry leaders and diplomats describing electric mobility as both an economic and environmental breakthrough for Zimbabwe.
Speaking at the launch, BYD Zimbabwe general manager, Mr Clayton Chimudima, said the company was redefining the global motor industry through cutting-edge battery technology, smart vehicle systems and integrated clean energy solutions. “BYD is a company which specialises in technology and is actually redefining the motor industry. It is our pleasure to be working with them,” he said.
Unlike traditional vehicle manufacturers that rely solely on internal combustion engines, BYD designs and manufactures its own batteries, electric motors and semiconductor chips, enabling greater efficiency, longer driving ranges and lower operating costs. The company’s Blade Battery technology, for example, is known for enhanced safety, durability and extended lifespan compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries.
Mr Chimudima said BYD recorded sales of 2.2 million vehicles last year across Southern Africa, Australia, Japan and Europe, underscoring the brand’s strong and growing global footprint.
In Zimbabwe, BYD is operating under the 3S model — sales, service and spares — to ensure comprehensive after-sales support and customer confidence. The drive-free strategy integrates 100 percent electric vehicles with solar power systems, allowing motorists to charge their vehicles at home or at the workplace using Zimbabwe’s abundant sunlight.
This reduces dependence on imported fuel, lowers carbon emissions and cuts long-term transport costs. “No more fuels, no more fumes, no noises,” he said.
BYD has introduced fully electric models such as the Dolphin Surf and the Atto 3, with the Atto 3 capable of travelling approximately 420 kilometres on a full charge – sufficient for several days of urban commuting without recharging.
The company is also offering plug-in hybrid models, including the Shark 6 and Sea Lion 6.
The Shark 6 can cover up to 670 kilometres using a combination of electric power and fuel.
This extended range is particularly significant in a market where charging infrastructure is still developing, as it reduces “range anxiety” and allows motorists to transition gradually to cleaner energy vehicles without sacrificing convenience.
Mr Chimudima expressed gratitude to local financial institutions and the Government for supporting the rollout of electric vehicles through financing arrangements and duty reductions. “I would like to thank Old Mutual, CBZ, NBS and the Government of Zimbabwe for the reduction of duties,” he said.
Tsapo Group of Companies commercial manager, Mr Godfrey Pasipanodya, said Zimbabwe’s “Look East” policy had opened avenues for innovation, investment and technology transfer.
“We listened to the Government policy of looking East and it has been profitable to us.”
Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Zhou Ding, said BYD’s entry into the local market reflected deepening economic cooperation between Zimbabwe and China. He recalled visiting BYD headquarters in Shenzhen two years ago with President Mnangagwa, during which the President test-drove a BYD vehicle.
