BYD Begins Production of Dolphin Mini at Brazil Plant

Camaçari, Brazil- BYD., a motor Vehicle Manufacturing., has officially rolled out the first Dolphin Mini (known as the Seagull in China and Dolphin Surf in Europe) from its newly inaugurated factory in Camaçari, Bahia, marking a major milestone for the Latin American automotive industry. The Dolphin Mini represents more than just a car — it symbolizes a shift toward sustainable, accessible, and smart mobility.

This launch took place at BYD’s industrial complex in Bahia, where advanced robotics, intelligent systems, and clean energy power what the company calls its "Factory of the Future." The Camaçari facility now stands as a hub of innovation and efficiency, leading the electric vehicle transformation across the region.

Since its global debut in April 2023, the Dolphin Mini has achieved remarkable success, surpassing 1 million units sold worldwide. In 2025, it was named World Urban Car of the Year by the World Car Awards. In Brazil alone, it has already recorded over 34,000 units sold, underscoring its popularity and market dominance.

Alongside the Dolphin Mini, BYD also launched local production of the Song Pro, a super hybrid SUV that’s also a bestseller. Over the coming weeks, the Camaçari plant will ramp up production of three models: the Dolphin Mini, Song Pro (GL/GS), and the King (GL/GS).

Inside the Camaçari complex, BYD has implemented a fully automated and smart manufacturing environment. From robotic glass installation to battery system assembly, each vehicle is built with high precision using real-time data and intelligent sequencing systems that prioritize the most in-demand models.

A notable feature is its silent friction system, which maintains noise levels below 70 decibels, offering a quieter and more efficient working environment. Covering 156,800 square meters, the plant is one of Latin America’s largest dedicated to electric vehicle production.

BYD is investing R$5.5 billion in the Camaçari complex, which spans 4.6 million square meters, or the equivalent of 645 football fields. Once fully operational, the project is expected to generate up to 20,000 direct and indirect jobs.

The plant’s initial production capacity is 150,000 vehicles per year, with plans to scale up to 300,000 in its second phase. The site currently operates under the SKD (Semi Knocked-Down) assembly system but will gradually evolve to full local manufacturing—including stamping, welding, painting, and expanded use of Brazilian-made components.

A key part of BYD’s local innovation roadmap includes the development of a flex-fuel hybrid engine, the 1.5 DM-i, created through a China-Brazil collaboration. Designed to run on both gasoline and ethanol, Brazil’s signature renewable fuel, this engine combines BYD’s electric powertrain technology with high-efficiency hybrid performance.

Mr. Stella Li, Global Executive Vice President and CEO of BYD Americas and Europe, said, “BYD is built by engineers and powered by innovation. We’re one of the world’s biggest investors in R&D, and now all that brainpower is fueling our Brazilian factory. It took just 15 months from breaking ground to getting our first car off the line. This is not just a milestone for BYD—it’s a turning point for sustainable mobility in Latin America. We chose Bahia for its passionate people, skilled workforce, and game-changing potential."

Mr. Alexandre Baldy, Senior VP and Head of Sales & Marketing at BYD Auto Brazil, said, “We’re turning Camaçari into a future-forward powerhouse. This factory isn’t just bricks and machines—it’s a symbol of confidence, innovation, and belief in Brazil. BYD is here with purpose: to drive the next chapter of the Brazilian auto industry. What we’re seeing in Bahia today is nothing short of a tech revolution. We see ourselves as a Brazilian company now—built by Brazilians, for Brazilians."

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