Words: Andrew Sluys
Published 23 March 2026
BYD New Zealand has reportedly secured a “major supply surge” of vehicles, intending to “cut Kiwi wait times.”
According to the brand’s local distribution arm, General Manager Warren Willmot recently completed negotiations in China to proritise local deliveries.
This applies to both pure electric and plug-in hybrids in BYD’s local range, with the first of these vehicles landing in May.
“Let’s be clear – Kiwis are over being at the mercy of the petrol pump,” said Warren Willmot, General Manager of BYD New Zealand.
“We did not go to China to have conversations – we went to secure vehicles. And we’ve done exactly that. This is a step-change in supply that means people can act now, not sit on a waiting list while fuel prices climb.”
BYD is also capping wait times for new vehicles to 90 days, and it expects most customers to receive their vehicles earlier.
The arrival of this surplus of vehicles should coincide with the arrival of two new BYD models in the Seal 6 Touring, and the Shark 6 2L.
“We’re not here to play on the edges of the market – we’re here to change it,” Willmot added.
“Whether it’s a family car or a work ute, there is no reason to stay locked into petrol or diesel anymore. The vehicles are here, the supply is here, and the wait times are gone.”
