Long-time partner of BYD in China, Forvia will also have a role to play in the manufacturer’s future factory in Hungary. The French supplier promises to be the “spearhead” of the Chinese brand’s first establishment in Europe.
Forvia and BYD have been working together since 2017. The French supplier has a research and development center in Shenzhen, the city where BYD’s global headquarters is located. The two companies already have seven joint factories in China. On July 18, 2024, Forvia and BYD also opened a seat assembly plant in Thailand to support local production, marking their first collaboration outside of China.
But the two partners do not intend to stop there. In a press release issued a few days ago, Forvia stated that the collaboration with BYD will be “extended” in the construction of a new factory in Hungary. Indeed, as part of their ongoing cooperation in Asia, the two companies plan to work together to enable the Chinese manufacturer to expand into the European market.
Forvia and BYD to Collaborate in Hungary
“Extending our partnership with BYD to Europe is an important step for both our companies. Our collaboration has already led to significant achievements in Asia, and we are confident that this expansion will foster innovation and growth in the European market,” said Patrick Koller, CEO of Forvia. The French company is committed to “supporting its customers in their international expansion.”
Forvia did not provide more details on the extent of the partnership in Hungary. With global car sales slowing down, auto parts manufacturers can rely on Chinese companies to rebound. The French firm is also in discussion with other Chinese automakers looking to establish themselves in Europe. Forvia is seeking to reduce its dependence on BYD.