Readying for production
In March we announced a new arrival in Hauts-de-France: BYD, the world’s leading manufacturer of rechargeable batteries. Six months on, the Chinese giant’s 80,000 sq m site, representing an investment of €10 million, is gearing up to produce fully electric buses and coaches. Plans call for initial output to reach 200 units a year for markets in France and French-speaking Europe, with the first vehicle scheduled to roll off the line in mid-2018.
A strategic choice for BYD
BYD’s new French plant is currently sending details and specifications to several major European manufacturers of production and control equipment, as well as service providers. Isbrand Ho, Managing Director of BYD Europe said: “We chose France because it has Europe’s largest bus market. And we selected Beauvais and the Hauts-de-France region because of the quality of the building proposed to us, the region’s ideal location, and the proactive approach of the local and regional authorities. We are confident that we will be able to recruit an experienced team and suppliers to help grow our new venture in Beauvais.”
Hiring under way
A major recruitment drive is now underway, as the firm looks to take on 100 employees—60 in manufacturing—through 2018. The search started with marketing, sales and after-sales staff, and was extended to production-line roles in September. By March 2018, BYD plans to fill 80 positions, among them production, technical, engineering, managerial and clerical support roles.
