Despite challenges in the automotive sector leading to layoffs at battery factories in Hungary, BYD’s investment in Szeged appears undeterred, reports Szegeder.
In early June, the company applied for permits to expand their factory significantly, nearly doubling its size. Sándor Nagy, Szeged’s (Southern-Hungary) deputy mayor, confirmed that BYD plans to develop the site in three phases, with completion expected by year-end.
Current plans of the BYD factory (grey) and the extension buildings (light blue). Picture: ÉTDR
The factory will occupy 300 hectares in an industrial park bought from Pick, originally slated for a meat plant. Recent submissions to building authorities reveal plans for a massive assembly plant spanning 500m x 200m, starting soon near the existing site of Pick.
This would make it Szeged’s largest building, surpassing even the main square in size.
The new site aims to optimize production, potentially yielding up to 1,000 electric vehicles daily once fully operational, necessitating logistical enhancements. Although near a residential area, efforts are underway to mitigate visual impact with tree plantings. Despite no official statement from BYD, groundwork suggests the factory’s phased construction will proceed apace, signaling confidence amidst industry volatility.
By enhancing their manufacturing footprint, BYD seeks to consolidate its European operations despite broader market challenges.
Via Szegeder; Featured Image: Facebook / BYD
