BYD Surpasses Tesla in Europe as EV Push Accelerates with Dolphin Surf and Denza Z9GT

The European electric vehicle market is undergoing a dramatic transformation—and BYD is at the epicenter. The Chinese automaker has officially overtaken Tesla in monthly battery-electric vehicle (BEV) sales in Europe for the first time, marking a historic milestone.

 In April 2025, BYD sold 7,231 BEVs, edging past Tesla’s 7,165 units. That’s a massive leap for a company that only began serious expansion across Europe in late 2022.

BYD Dolphin Surf: Affordable EV for the Masses

Leading the charge is the Dolphin Surf, a compact hatchback based on China’s Seagull.

Starting price: €21,870 (UK)

Battery options: 30 kWh (220 km range) or 43.2 kWh (322 km range)

Competes directly with low-cost EVs like the Dacia Spring

Denza Z9GT: BYD's Luxury Ambitions

BYD isn’t stopping at affordability—it’s aiming high with the Denza Z9GT, set to debut in Europe by late 2025.

Up to 952 hp, tri-motor layout

Designed by Wolfgang Egger (former Audi/Lamborghini designer)

Target: Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo

European Expansion: Local Manufacturing & R&D

To support its aggressive growth:

BYD’s first EU car factory in Szeged, Hungary launches by end of 2025 (150,000 unit capacity)

A second plant is planned in Turkey, pushing total EU output to 500,000 units/year

New European HQ and R&D center also underway in Hungary

From budget-friendly EVs to premium electric sports wagons, BYD is executing one of the most aggressive product offensives in European automotive history. With localized production, a strong distribution network, and an expanding lineup of EVs and PHEVs, the company is poised to reshape the European EV market and challenge legacy manufacturers at every level.