By Deji Osas
BYD Overtakes Toyota to Become Singapore’s Top-Selling Car Brand
In a landmark shift within Singapore’s automotive market, Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer BYD has officially surpassed Toyota to become the city-state’s best-selling car brand for the first time. This achievement marks a significant milestone not only for BYD but also for the growing influence of Chinese automakers in Southeast Asia’s competitive car market.
According to recent sales data from early 2025, BYD sold over 6,190 vehicles in Singapore, capturing a 14.4% share of the new car market. This is a remarkable 337% increase compared to the previous year, when BYD sold just 1,416 units. In comparison, Toyota, which had long dominated the Singapore market, recorded sales of approximately 5,736 vehicles — an increase of 49% from its 2023 figures but still falling short of BYD’s surge.
Experts attribute BYD’s rapid rise to several factors. First, the brand’s strategic pricing model makes its EVs more accessible to Singapore’s buyers, especially as the government continues to offer incentives aimed at encouraging green transportation. Second, BYD’s lineup features popular models such as the Atto 3 SUV, which appeals to urban drivers looking for a balance of performance, technology, and affordability.
The shift highlights a broader trend of accelerating EV adoption in Singapore, reflecting both consumer preferences and government policies geared toward sustainability. BYD’s breakthrough underscores the growing competitiveness of Chinese automakers on the global stage, challenging established Japanese and Western brands.
As BYD continues to expand its footprint in Singapore and beyond, industry watchers anticipate intensified competition in the electric vehicle segment — a dynamic that promises to benefit consumers through more choices and innovative technologies.
