In a move that could reshape the future of mobility in Latin America, Chinese EV giant BYD (Build Your Dreams) has officially kicked off  local electric car production in Brazil, rolling out its first-ever fully electric passenger vehicle from its state-of-the-art facility in Bahia. The moment is not just historic—it’s a bold declaration that Brazil is no longer just a market for EVs, but now a manufacturer.

This isn’t just another auto industry update. This is the start of an EV revolution in South America—and the world is watching.

BYD’s First Locally Assembled EV: The Dolphin Mini

At the heart of this breakthrough is the Dolphin Mini—a compact, stylish, and fully electric hatchback designed for urban roads and rising fuel prices. The vehicle, known as the Seagull in China, is now proudly rolling off the assembly lines of BYD’s new facility in Camaçari, a city that once hosted Ford’s now-defunct plant.

With zero tailpipe emissions, a futuristic design, and an expected price tag tailored for emerging markets, the Dolphin Mini is poised to become a game-changer—not just for BYD, but for Brazilian drivers hungry for affordable, clean mobility.

From Ghost Town to Green Dream: The Ford Legacy Reborn

Camaçari’s massive industrial complex, once the symbol of Ford’s departure from Brazil in 2021, has now transformed into a thriving EV hub under BYD’s command.

What was once an abandoned factory is now bustling with engineers, robots, and future-ready technology. The facility spans 4.6 million square meters, with 26 warehouses and a dedicated test track. This isn’t just a production plant—it’s an ecosystem built for sustainability, innovation, and scale.

BYD’s Ambitious Numbers: Production, Jobs, and Vision

BYD isn’t tiptoeing into the market—it’s charging in full speed:

• 150,000 electric vehicles/year capacity in Phase 1
  
• Plans to scale up to 300,000 units by 2028
  
• Long-term vision for 600,000 vehicles annually by 2030
  
• Over 20,000 jobs expected (direct + indirect)
  

In 2025 alone, the plant aims to assemble up to 50,000 vehicles from semi-knocked-down (SKD) kits, imported from China. By December 2026, the plant will transition to full-scale production with high local content, reducing reliance on imports and strengthening Brazil’s domestic supply chain.

Why Brazil? The Strategic Bet That Could Change Everything

Brazil isn’t just BYD’s latest investment—it’s the centerpiece of its Latin American expansion strategy.

With soaring fuel prices, congested cities, and a growing climate-conscious population, Brazil offers fertile ground for EV adoption. Government policies supporting green mobility, reduced taxes on electric vehicles, and consumer incentives are making the shift faster than expected.

Add to that a talented local workforce and an unused industrial complex (thanks to Ford’s exit), and you’ve got the perfect recipe for transformation.

Controversies, Delays, and a Lesson in Accountability

But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing.

In late 2024, construction at the BYD plant was marred by controversy. Brazilian labor inspectors uncovered alleged “slavery-like” conditions for around 160 Chinese workers brought in by third-party contractors. Workers reportedly faced unpaid wages, poor housing, and inhumane treatment.

The news sparked public outrage, prompting the Brazilian Ministry of Labor to suspend temporary visas for the project and open an investigation. BYD responded swiftly, terminating its relationship with the contractor and launching an internal probe.

While BYD has maintained that it wasn’t directly responsible for the violations, the incident served as a wake-up call for accountability and transparency, especially as Chinese companies continue expanding globally.

Despite the controversy, BYD stayed committed to its Brazil vision—proving that it’s not running from problems but working to fix them.

The EV Lineup: More Than Just the Dolphin Mini

While the Dolphin Mini is the star of the show, it’s just the beginning.

In the coming months, BYD plans to launch:

• Song Pro DM‑i: A hybrid SUV with class-leading efficiency
• King (Chaser 05): A bold plug-in hybrid sedan for professionals
• Future all-electric SUVs and buses, made for both urban and long-haul transport

What’s notable is that BYD isn’t just targeting private car owners. The company also has plans to supply electric buses and trucks, reshaping public transport and logistics in the region.

What This Means for the World

BYD’s Brazil production is a global milestone. Here’s why:

• It marks China’s largest EV manufacturing investment in Latin America.
• It shows that EV production can succeed beyond traditional hubs like China, the U.S., or Europe.
• It could pressure legacy automakers like GM, Volkswagen, and Toyota to ramp up local EV production to stay relevant in Brazil.

Moreover, this move gives developing countries a blueprint for how to leapfrog straight into green mobility without going through decades of gasoline dependency.

Market Reactions: Buzz, Demand, and BYD’s Moment

Ever since the first Dolphin Mini rolled out, Brazilian social media has exploded with excitement. EV enthusiasts, tech YouTubers, and green mobility influencers are already reviewing, comparing, and pre-booking the vehicle. Dealerships in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro have reported waiting lists forming within days.

It’s a classic case of “right product, right time, right place.”

And with petrol prices climbing and environmental awareness peaking, the Brazilian public is ready.

Challenges Ahead? Of Course. But Momentum Is Real

No revolution is without roadblocks.

BYD still faces:

• Supply chain localization challenges
• EV charging infrastructure gaps in rural Brazil
• Competition from legacy automakers entering the EV game

But make no mistake: BYD has cracked the code for entering and winning in emerging markets. Its bold Brazil play may be the first of many across Latin America—and the world.

Final Word: From Dreams to Reality

“Build Your Dreams” is more than a name—it’s BYD’s mission. And now, in the heart of Brazil, that dream is rolling on four wheels.

With the Dolphin Mini leading the charge and a mega-factory breathing life into a post-Ford city, BYD has turned a risky bet into a masterstroke.

The electric future is here—and for Brazil, it’s locally made.