BYD, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, introduces its Han sedan in the Middle East market.

Chinese electric car company BYD announced the launch of its flagship Han sedan in the United Arab Emirates this week. The company also revealed plans to offer its ATTO 3 for sale in the UAE, although it’s unclear when deliveries will begin.

This move represents a strategic push by Chinese businesses into the Middle East at a time when geopolitical tensions have hindered their efforts to expand in the U.S. and Europe. Middle Eastern countries, particularly Saudi Arabia, have committed to reducing their reliance on fossil fuels. In a similar development, Chinese electric car startup Nio recently secured $738.5 million from a fund owned by the Abu Dhabi government.

BYD’s collaboration with Al-Futtaim Electric Mobility Company includes the opening of a showroom in Dubai Festival City. The company had previously announced Al-Futtaim as its representative in the UAE, with plans to introduce four car models – both fully electric and hybrid – by the end of the year.

BYD has seen rapid growth in China’s domestic auto market and is now expanding its passenger car business overseas. The company’s Han sedan, which is available in hybrid and pure electric versions and is powered by BYD’s “blade battery,” was among the top 10 best-selling new energy vehicles in China in 2020 according to data from China’s Passenger Car Association.

As part of its global expansion, BYD is making strategic moves to gain a foothold in the Middle East while continuing to establish itself as a major player in the rapidly growing electric vehicle market.