BYD Riverside showroom now open, offering relief from rising fuel costs
The timing of BYD’s arrival is significant. From 2015 to today, petrol prices in South Africa have risen by more than 73% and diesel by over 103%, while electricity costs have remained comparatively stable.
BYD, the world’s leading manufacturer of new energy vehicles, has officially opened its showroom in Naaldekoker Crescent, Riverside, Mbombela. This marks a major step forward for Mpumalanga, as one of the fastest-growing global automotive companies brings its award-winning electric and hybrid vehicles to the region.
The new dealership forms part of the Westvaal group, and is strategically situated between Audi Mbombela and Volkswagen Mbombela, both also part of Westvaal. This positioning underscores Westvaal’s commitment to offering customers a full spectrum of mobility solutions – from traditional combustion engines to cutting-edge electric vehicles.
In 2025, BYD sold more than 4.6 million new energy vehicles worldwide, cementing its position as the number one NEV brand. The company now operates in 112 countries and regions, with manufacturing facilities across six continents. South Africa has already recognized BYD’s impact, with the brand receiving accolades such as Manufacturer of the Year and Utility Vehicle of the Year from TopGear South Africa.
The Mbombela showroom introduces local customers to a range of vehicles that combine advanced technology, safety, and performance.
Among the models available are the Dolphin Surf EV, a compact and stylish hatchback with ranges up to 295 km; the Atto 3 EV, a versatile SUV offering panoramic sunroof and advanced driver assistance systems; the Seal EV, a luxury sedan rivaling BMW and Mercedes with performance models reaching 0–100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds; and the Shark PHEV, a rugged utility vehicle that blends hybrid efficiency with off-road strength.
The Mbombela showroom will introduce local customers to a range of vehicles that combine advanced technology, safety and performance.
Among the models expected are the Dolphin Surf EV, a compact and stylish hatchback with ranges up to 295km; the Atto 3 EV, a versatile SUV offering panoramic sunroof and advanced driver assistance systems; the Seal EV, a luxury sedan rivalling BMW and Mercedes with performance models reaching 0-100km/h in just 4.5 seconds; and the Shark PHEV, a rugged utility vehicle that blends hybrid efficiency with off-road strength.
BYD’s vehicles are powered by innovations such as the Blade Battery, known for its safety and long lifespan, and the Super e-Platform, which enables ultra-fast charging and extreme performance. The company’s DiPilot Intelligent Driving System also brings advanced driver assistance features to everyday consumers, enhancing safety and convenience.
BYD’s vehicles are powered by innovations such as the Blade Battery, known for its safety and long lifespan, and the Super e-Platform, which enables ultra-fast charging and extreme performance. The company’s DiPilot Intelligent Driving System also brings advanced driver assistance features to everyday consumers, enhancing safety and convenience.
The timing of BYD’s arrival is significant. From 2015 to today, petrol prices in South Africa have risen by more than 73% and diesel by over 103%, while electricity costs have remained comparatively stable.
BYD’s vehicles offer a practical solution to rising fuel costs, delivering lower running expenses and reducing environmental impact. Globally, BYD has already saved more than 125.9 billion kilograms of carbon emissions, equivalent to the absorption capacity of two billion trees.
For Mbombela and the wider Mpumalanga region, the opening of BYD in Riverside is not only the launch of a new dealership but a turning point in the local automotive landscape. It provides access to world-class technology, cleaner energy solutions, and a new chapter in sustainable mobility for South African drivers.
