BYD opening new dealerships

BYD Auto NZ has announced it is expanding its authorised dealer network with six new sites set to open in the coming months.

The Chinese marque has 19 established showrooms across New Zealand and added another dealership to its network with the July 1 opening of BYD Pukekohe on Svendsen Road.

Next to offer the brand’s range of new energy vehicles will be BYD South Auckland on Great South Road, Manukau, which is due to open on July 7. 

The purpose-built facility will be operated by the Andrew Simms Group and boast a 10,000sqm site with a state-of-the-art showroom and dedicated aftersales facilities.

BYD Wellington CBD on Featherston Street is also set to start trading this month, followed by Adventure Motors Wairarapa, BYD Hornby in Christchurch, and BYD Invercargill in the coming months.

Warren Willmot, BYD Auto NZ general manager, says the company is increasing its footprint to provide greater access to vehicle sales, servicing, parts and aftersales support.

“The expansion of our dealer network reflects the remarkable confidence the New Zealand market has shown in the BYD brand,” he adds.

“We are committed to ensuring every New Zealander, whether in a major city or a regional centre, has access to a BYD dealership with world-class customer experience and aftersales support.”

Colonial deal

The Colonial Motor Company announced to the NZX on June 30 that it has agreed a deal with BYD Auto NZ, a division of the Ateco Group, to boost its representation of the brand. 

Ash Waugh, Colonial’s chairman, says its representation will be undertaken via the company’s subsidiary, Adventure Motor Group Limited. 

“This wider representation will initially be in south Christchurch and the Wairarapa, with additional locations coming online in due course,” he adds.

“The newly established dealerships will operate from company-owned properties. They will be branded Adventure Motors BYD Canterbury and Adventure Motors BYD Wairarapa. 

“The company’s subsidiary, Energy Motors Limited, already represents BYD in the Taranaki region. 

“We look forward to these new dealerships further developing the lasting and successful partnership with Ateco Group and the BYD brand.”