BYD has confirmed it will take direct control of its Australian operations, replacing EVDirect as the national distributor of its passenger vehicles. The change will take effect from July 2025, when BYD Australia Pty Ltd becomes both the importer and distributor for the brand.

The transition marks the end of EVDirect's role, which has served as BYD’s local distributor since the brand launched in Australia. While EVDirect will no longer manage distribution, it will retain a minority stake in the existing dealership network through a retail joint venture.

That joint venture — EV Dealer Group Pty Ltd — will continue operating as BYD’s primary retail partner in Australia. The company is 80% owned by Eagers Automotive Limited, with EVDirect holding the remaining 20%.

Eagers Automotive has signed a term sheet with BYD Australia for a new five-year dealer agreement, with an option for a further five-year term. The agreement will preserve the joint venture’s current national network of sales and service centres.

Subject to BYD Australia’s approval, the retail group will also be allowed to apply to expand its footprint to support anticipated sales growth. The shift to factory-backed distribution aligns with BYD’s broader global strategy of direct market control.

This move comes just months away from BYD's latest new sub-brand entering Australia, Denza.

BYD Australia may also appoint additional authorised dealers as it scales its network.