Markets 
Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD says it will launch in Canada in late 2026, opening more than 20 dealerships in major cities including Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Calgary.
Stella Li, executive vice-president of BYD and president of BYD Americas, confirmed Tuesday the company will begin rolling out the dealerships as Ottawa’s new trade agreement with Beijing reshapes Canada’s EV landscape.
The company’s first phase of vehicles in Canada will include the Atto 3 compact SUV, the Seal sedan and the Dolphin hatchback.
A second phase is expected to introduce the Seagull city car, which could start at around CAD$25,000, potentially making it the cheapest electric vehicle available in Canada.
The launch marks BYD’s first public confirmation of its Canadian expansion timeline and model lineup after months of industry speculation.
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Analysts and dealer consultants had reported signs of preparations earlier this year after the company hired a Markham, Ont.-based automotive retail consultancy to scout dealership locations.
BYD’s expansion comes after a January 2026 trade agreement between Ottawa and Beijing replaced Canada’s previous 100 per cent tariff on Chinese-made EVs with a reduced 6.1 per cent tariff under an annual quota system.
The agreement allows up to 49,000 Chinese-made electric vehicles into Canada annually, with the cap set to rise to 70,000 by 2030.
In exchange, China reduced tariffs on Canadian agricultural exports including canola, lobster, crab and peas, according to Global Affairs Canada.
Earlier this year, Ford repeatedly criticized Prime Minister Mark Carney’s decision to reduce tariffs on up to 49,000 Chinese-made electric vehicles in exchange for reduced duties and suggested the lack of direct communication from Carney has potentially damaged the relationship between the two leaders.
“I’m disappointed because we had such a great relationship,” Ford said. “And I look forward to continuing the great relationship, but it’s all about communication, collaboration and partnership. At least I know where I stand, though.”
However, Ontario is now expected to become a key battleground for BYD’s Canadian ambitions.
The province currently has an EV market share of about 6.5 per cent, significantly lower than British Columbia and Quebec, while also serving as the centre of Canada’s automotive manufacturing industry and home to major auto unions including Unifor.
Pricing for BYD’s Canadian vehicles has not yet been officially announced, but market estimates suggest the Atto 3 could sell for around C$42,000, while the Dolphin hatchback may land between C$31,000 and C$35,000.
The lower-priced Seagull model could undercut Canada’s current cheapest EV by more than C$13,000.
–with files from Global News’ Isaac Callan & Collin D’Mello
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