Home / Business and Economy / BYD Faces AU$60M Refund Crisis Over Model Year Mix-Up
BYD Faces AU$60M Refund Crisis Over Model Year Mix-Up
22 Jul
Summary
- Over 1,200 Australian buyers received 2025 models instead of 2026.
- BYD's compensation effort may cost the company up to AU$60 million.
- Customers can keep the car, swap for a 2026 model, or get a full refund.
A significant issue has emerged for electric vehicle manufacturer BYD, affecting over 1,200 customers in Australia. Buyers purchased vehicles, including models like the Atto 3 and Sealion 6, under the impression they were acquiring 2026 models. However, it was later revealed these were actually 2025 builds, leading to widespread customer dissatisfaction.
The controversy reportedly began with a Facebook post from a disgruntled buyer who suggested a class action lawsuit, which quickly gained traction. BYD has attributed the discrepancy to an administrative error concerning factory departure dates rather than build dates. Initially, the company offered AU$1,100 in compensation, but this was deemed insufficient by many.
In response to the escalating customer outrage, BYD has expanded its resolution options. Affected customers can now choose to keep their vehicle with the AU$1,100 compensation, exchange it for a 2026 model year vehicle under the original purchase terms, or opt for a complete refund. This comprehensive response to the model year mix-up is anticipated to incur costs for BYD potentially reaching AU$60 million.
