Since the easing of import restrictions in early 2025, the brand has rapidly gained traction among Sri Lankan consumers, with growing demand for its electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle range.
The progress was shared at a press conference hosted by John Keells CG Auto, BYD’s authorised distributor in Sri Lanka.
Though a new entrant, BYD has already become a popular choice in both the electric vehicle (EV) and plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) segments — reflecting an encouraging shift in consumer interest toward new energy mobility options.
As of April 2025, BYD has recorded a notable increase in market share of Sri Lanka’s brand-new vehicle segment.
Leading this demand are the BYD SEALION 6, powered by BYD’s Blade Battery and built on the advanced offering of a 1,092 km combined range and DiPilot intelligent driving assist; and the all-electric BYD ATTO 3, which delivers a 480 km real-world range, 30-50 min fast charging cycle and a smooth and responsive driving experience.
Together, with models like the affordable, compact and cutting-edge BYD DOLPHIN, the powerful and elegant BYD SEAL and recently launched SHARK 06, a rugged, off-road-ready plug-in hybrid pickup designed for adventure, the brand is quickly becoming a fast favourite across a wide-cross section of Sri Lankan consumers transitioning to new energy mobility.
Parallel to its market expansion, BYD and John Keells CG Auto are also growing their showroom and aftersales presence with new locations planned in Ampara and Rathnapura.
These additions complement existing showrooms in Colombo, Galle, Kandy, and Kurunegala, while after-sales service points are also expanding to cover Kandy, Galle, and Kurunegala, Ratnapura and Ampara strengthening support in all major automotive markets across Sri Lanka.
In addition to broadening its physical footprint, John Keells CG Auto is strengthening its relationship with BYD by expanding its portfolio to serve different segments of Sri Lanka’s automotive market.
This includes plans to introduce DENZA — BYD Group’s premium brand that integrates cutting-edge NEV technology with refined luxury.
An MoU was signed between BYD and John Keells CG Auto to launch DENZA in Sri Lanka, reinforcing the shared ambition to expand the reach of advanced NEV solutions in the country.
Speaking at the event, Chairperson of the John Keells Group, Mr. Krishan Balendra said:
“BYD’s early success in Sri Lanka’s NEV segment reflects the strength of our partnership and our shared vision for the future of mobility.
The upcoming introduction of DENZA marks the beginning of yet another exciting chapter — bringing premium NEV experiences to local customers.
It also stands as a testament to the trust BYD has placed in John Keells CG Auto to lead the brand’s continued expansion in Sri Lanka."
General Manager of Asia-Pacific Auto Sales Division, BYD Auto Industry Co., Mr. Liu Xueliang added:
“Sri Lanka is a key market for BYD in South Asia.
While the scale of business in Sri Lanka is not on the same level of other markets we have entered in the region, Sri Lanka’s size means that it can still serve as a global case study for the positive impacts of electric mobility on a national scale.”
As Sri Lanka’s interest in new energy mobility continues to grow, BYD and John Keells CG Auto are focused on expanding their presence and making NEVs more accessible to everyday consumers — catering to a broad range of the market from entry-level models to the luxury segment.
With new showrooms and service centers underway, both partners are working towards building a strong foundation for long-term growth — and shaping the next chapter of Sri Lanka’s automotive journey.
About BYD
BYD is a multinational high-tech company dedicated to leveraging technological innovations for a better life.
Founded in 1995 as a rechargeable battery maker, BYD now boasts a diverse business scope covering automobiles, rail transit, new energy, and electronics, with over 30 industrial parks worldwide.
From energy generation and storage to its applications, BYD is committed to providing zero-emission energy solutions that reduce global reliance on fossil fuels.
Its new energy vehicle footprint covers six continents, over 70 countries and regions, and more than 400 cities.
Listed on both the Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges, the company is recognized as a Fortune Global 500 enterprise, pioneering innovations in pursuit of a greener world.
For more information, please visit www.bydglobal.com.
About JKCG Auto
John Keells CG Auto (Private) Limited (JKCG Auto) is a subsidiary of John Keells Holdings PLC and CG Auto Pte. Ltd., having entered the automotive industry in 2023.
JKCG Auto is the authorized distributor of BYD passenger vehicles, parts, and services in Sri Lanka.
The company is committed to building customer confidence in New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) and setting new standards while supporting the development of an ecosystem for NEVs in Sri Lanka.
For more information, please visit www.johnkeellscgauto.com.
About DENZA
DENZA was founded in 2010.
At the beginning of its establishment, it adhered to the strategic positioning of only providing new energy luxury cars, always sharing and co-creating with users, and creating a smart and safe new luxury car brand that creates sensory value for users.
With fourteen years of development, DENZA has been actively enterprising, injecting strength and confidence into its products and actions.
DENZA has launched the D9, N7, Z9&Z9GT and other models, committed to bringing the new luxury and full-optimized travel experience to users around the world, and opening up a "new world of potential" for new energy luxury vehicles.
Photo Captions
1. General Manager – Asia-Pacific Auto Sales Division, BYD Auto Industry Co., Ltd, Mr. Liu Xueliang; President – Retail Sector, John Keells Group, Mr. Charitha Subasinghe; Deputy General Manager – Asia-Pacific Auto Sales Division, BYD Auto Industry Co., Ltd, Mr. Ketsu Zhang; and Chairperson – John Keells Group, Mr. Krishan Balendra, at the DENZA MoU signing.
2. General Manager of Asia-Pacific Auto Sales Division, BYD Auto Industry Co., Ltd, Mr. Liu Xueliang, and Chairperson of John Keells Group, Mr. Krishan Balendra
3. General Manager of Asia-Pacific Auto Sales Division, BYD Auto Industry Co., Ltd, Mr. Liu Xueliang