Runner Automobiles PLC is set to manufacture electric vehicles of Chinese automaker BYD in Bangladesh, marking a major strategic shift for the local company beyond its traditional two- and three-wheeler business.
The company has completed a technical agreement with BYD following a feasibility study, paving the way for local production of BYD electric cars in Bangladesh. Read the latest report by The Daily Star
According to a disclosure published on the website of the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE), Runner plans to invest in factory expansion and machinery required for electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing.
The development follows Runner’s earlier agreement with BYD to explore local production. In March 2026, Runner announced a master supply and manufacturing agreement with BYD Auto Industry Company, with plans to move towards local assembly and production. Read the earlier report by The Daily Star
Runner’s Financial Recovery
Runner’s new EV initiative comes at a time when the company’s financial performance has started to improve after several challenging years.
Standalone revenue increased 28 percent to Tk 563 crore in the 2024-25 financial year, while operating profit rose to Tk 110 crore.
The company also returned to profitability. Runner reported a net profit of Tk 7 crore in FY2024-25, compared with a net loss of Tk 70 crore in FY2022-23.
However, high financial expenses remain a concern for the company. As a result, investment in EV manufacturing represents both a potential growth opportunity and a financial challenge for Runner.
Tk 250 Crore Fundraising Plan
To support its expansion plans, Runner’s board has approved raising Tk 250 crore through preference shares.
At least half of the proceeds are planned to be converted into equity at a later stage.
The company has also proposed doubling its authorised capital to Tk 400 crore from the existing Tk 200 crore, subject to regulatory approval.
The latest developments regarding the BYD partnership, including Runner’s financing and capital-related decisions, have also been reported by The Business Standard. Read The Business Standard report
From Importer to Local Manufacturer
BYD entered Bangladesh’s passenger vehicle market in 2024 through CG Runner Bangladesh, a joint venture involving Runner Group and Nepal’s Chaudhary Group.
The company officially launched BYD vehicles in Bangladesh in March 2024, beginning with the BYD Seal. Read The Daily Star’s report on BYD’s Bangladesh launch
Since then, BYD has expanded its presence in the local market with additional electric and new-energy vehicle models. In May 2026, the company introduced the BYD Seal 5, Seal 6 and Sealion 6 AWD in Bangladesh. Read the report by The Business Standard
Runner’s latest move therefore represents a potential transition from importing and distributing BYD vehicles to manufacturing them locally.
What Local Production Could Mean
For BYD, local manufacturing would establish a production foothold in Bangladesh after entering the market through imports in 2024.
For Runner, the partnership could open a new business segment beyond motorcycles and three-wheelers and position the company in Bangladesh’s emerging electric vehicle industry.
Earlier reports indicated that Runner planned to establish an EV manufacturing facility in Bhaluka, Mymensingh, where vehicles would be assembled and painted with technical support from BYD. Read the earlier report by The Daily Star
Local production could also create opportunities around automotive supply chains, technical skills and EV-related services. However, the scale of investment, production capacity, localisation level and implementation timeline will be important factors in determining the project’s long-term impact.
Positive Response from the Stock Market
The market has already responded positively to Runner’s latest EV plans.
Runner Automobiles’ share price rose 1.53 percent to Tk 53, close to its 52-week high of Tk 54, according to the latest market report. Read the latest market report by The Daily Star
For Runner, the challenge now will be to maintain its financial recovery while managing the investment required to enter electric vehicle manufacturing.
If successfully implemented, the partnership with BYD could transform Runner from a traditional two- and three-wheeler manufacturer into a significant player in Bangladesh’s growing electric vehicle market.
Related Reading
- Runner set to manufacture BYD cars in Bangladesh — The Daily Star
- Runner moves ahead with BYD tie-up, signs EV licensing deal — The Business Standard
- Runner to assemble BYD electric vehicles — The Daily Star
- Runner teams up with China’s BYD to explore local EV production — The Business Standard
- Runner Automobiles ties up with China’s BYD in EV push — The Financial Express