BYD Accelerates on Two Fronts: New EVs Hit the Road as Formula 1 Entry Takes Shape

BYD launches revamped Atto 3, exports seven-seater Ti7, targets 1.5M overseas sales by 2026, and explores Formula 1 entry with Christian Horner talks.

BYD is making clear that its ambitions stretch far beyond the Chinese domestic market. Over the past week, the world’s largest electric-vehicle maker has rolled out a revamped compact SUV, confirmed the export of a family-oriented seven-seater, and advanced discussions about entering Formula 1 — moves that together paint a picture of a company determined to build both volume and prestige on the global stage.

Revamped Atto 3 and a Family SUV for Overseas Markets

On 21 May, the new-generation Atto 3 — known in China as the Yuan Plus — officially launched. The headline upgrade is the second-generation Blade Battery, paired with BYD’s latest flash-charging technology. The top rear-wheel-drive variant delivers 240 kW and a CLTC-rated range of up to 630 kilometres. An adaptive damping system, dubbed Yun-N C, is also included to improve ride comfort.

Just a day later, BYD confirmed that its flagship Ti7 SUV would be exported to right-hand-drive markets such as the UK. Based on the Fangchengbao Titanium series, the seven-seater will be available as both a plug-in hybrid and a pure electric model. The all-wheel-drive version sprints to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and offers up to 755 kilometres of range. The Ti7 is part of a push to lift the share of higher-margin premium vehicles in BYD’s export mix.

Stock Recovers as Analyst Targets Go Global

BYD’s H-shares closed Friday at HK$91.60, up 1.16%, putting them about 3.5% above the 52-week low of HK$88.50 touched in February. The all-time high remains HK$159.27. In Frankfurt, the stock also edged higher, climbing 1.47% to €10.10, giving a market capitalisation of roughly €92.06 billion.

JPMorgan analysts have highlighted BYD’s aggressive global ambitions. Management is targeting total deliveries of 5 million to 5.5 million vehicles in 2026 — an increase of up to 20% — with overseas sales projected to hit 1.5 million units, a 50% jump. By the end of 2026, international markets could account for around 60% of total vehicle revenue.

The stock stabilised last week after a period of pressure on China’s automotive sector. BYD’s focus on ultra-fast charging and family-oriented models offers investors a counter-narrative to the persistent price competition at home. Analysts report solid order intake for the new models, which should support margins in the second half of the year.

A Pit Lane Bid: Christian Horner Talks and an Alpine Option

Alongside product news, BYD is actively exploring a Formula 1 entry — a move that would plant its brand on one of motorsport’s biggest stages. Talks have centred on Christian Horner, the former Red Bull team principal who left the team in July 2025 and whose non-compete clause expired on 8 May 2026. Horner is believed to have met BYD vice-president Stella Li multiple times, with one encounter reportedly taking place at the Cannes Film Festival.

A second option is also on the table: BYD is considering a 24% stake in the Alpine F1 team through a consortium. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has voiced support for a Chinese manufacturer entering the sport. The timing could be favourable, as new engine regulations come into force in 2027. Stella Li has said BYD is “seriously” evaluating the opportunity to secure a starting grid spot.

Smart Strategy, a Flagship Sedan, and a Coming Catalyst

The next major event on BYD’s calendar is a press conference on 28 May dedicated to its “Smart Strategy,” following a technology presentation on the second-generation battery on 5 March. Chairman Wang Chuanfu is focusing on integrating electrification with intelligent vehicle systems — covering software, automated driving functions, and new vehicle architectures.

Further down the pipeline, the “Great Han” sedan has been spotted undergoing road tests. An official application to China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology could come in June or July 2026. The top trim is expected to feature the second-generation Blade Battery and fast-charging technology, with a targeted range of up to 1,000 kilometres. Pre-sales are slated for August, with a market launch in September. The starting price is likely to exceed 250,000 yuan, or roughly $36,800.

Dividend and Valuation

On the capital side, BYD has proposed a final dividend of 0.358 renminbi per share for the fiscal year ending 31 December 2025. The ex-dividend date is 11 June 2026. The stock trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 26.26 based on trailing twelve-month earnings — a level that reflects the market’s high expectations for sustained growth.

As the 28 May smart strategy event approaches, investors will be watching for concrete details on how BYD plans to weave together software, premium models, and the cachet of Formula 1 into a coherent next-phase growth story. The pieces are falling into place; execution is now the key test.