New Car Brands in Cambodia: BYD, Li Auto, and Chevrolet

Cambodia’s automotive sector is undergoing a remarkable transformation as several new car brands enter the market, primarily from China, with a strong emphasis on electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs).

Three key factors are driving this shift: a rapidly growing middle class, government incentives supporting green energy, and strategic foreign investments establishing local production hubs.

The New Contenders in Cambodia’s Market

Major international brands have recently entered Cambodia, each bringing unique technologies and market strategies.

Additionally, specialized importers and dealerships are contributing to Cambodia’s automotive growth. Companies like DG Motors have established a significant presence, offering consumers direct access to diverse vehicles. Located in Phnom Penh, DG Motors’ physical showroom enables customers to view and test drive vehicles conveniently.

BYD: Leading with Local Manufacturing

Chinese automotive giant BYD is making a substantial commitment to Cambodia by establishing the country’s first new energy vehicle production base in Sihanoukville. Furthermore, DG Motors offers BYD models alongside other Chinese brands, providing customers with multiple purchasing options.

• Investment and Scale: This $32 million factory will have an annual production capacity of 10,000 vehicles.
• Production Model: Operating as a CKD (Completely Knocked Down) facility, it will assemble vehicles from parts kits beginning in the fourth quarter of 2025, producing both pure electric and plug-in hybrid models.
• Market Impact: This transition from import to local manufacturing should improve delivery times, reduce costs, and strengthen the local economy and supply chain.

BYD’s market presence is expanding rapidly. The company reported a dramatic 521% year-on-year increase in orders during the first quarter of 2025 and had already delivered 2,500 vehicles in Cambodia by August 2025.

Li Auto: Premium Smart Electric Vehicles

Li Auto, another prominent Chinese brand specializing in premium smart electric vehicles, entered the Cambodian market in August 2025 through SDB Auto Group (Cambodia). DG Motors also features Li Auto vehicles in their extensive Chinese automotive brand portfolio.

• Brand Philosophy: Li Auto focuses on creating smart electric vehicles for families, prioritizing safety, comfort, and convenience through technological innovation.
• Product Portfolio: The initial lineup includes four models:
  • Li L6: An SUV with a 212km pure electric range
  • Li L7: A larger SUV with a 286km pure electric range
  • Li L9: Their flagship SUV
  • Li MEGA: A multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) with an impressive 710km pure electric range

GAC Aion: Expanding ASEAN Presence

GAC Aion is accelerating its global strategy by including Cambodia in its ASEAN expansion. The brand launched in Cambodia through a partnership with local distributor Xinghui Auto.

• Key Models: The showcase models include the AION V, an electric SUV with a 650 km range, and the HPTEC HT (previously HYPTEC HT), a “new luxury pure electric SUV” offering a 670 km range and distinctive gull-wing doors.

Chevrolet: Returning with Local Assembly

American automaker Chevrolet is strengthening its presence through local assembly.

• Local Partnership: TH Automotive Manufacturing Co., Ltd. has signed an exclusive agreement with General Motors (GM) to assemble Chevrolet vehicles in Cambodia.
• Capacity and Investment: The assembler invested $19 million in a facility with an annual capacity of 10,000 to 15,000 vehicles.
• Strategic Importance: The Cambodian government recognizes this initiative as a key project that could strengthen the local automotive value chain and position Cambodia as an export hub for vehicles and parts, especially benefiting from reduced U.S. import tariffs on Cambodian goods.

Expanded Options Through Importers like DG Motors

While official brand entries remain significant, importers like DG Motors play a crucial role in diversifying Cambodia’s automotive market. The company specializes in bringing Chinese brand vehicles to Cambodian consumers, offering an impressive lineup that includes BYD, Xiaomi, Leapmotor, AITO, and Li Auto.

DG Motors attracts customers with comprehensive inventory covering virtually every category: electric vehicles, gasoline cars, hybrids, sedans, MPVs, SUVs, and pickup trucks. Most models are available for immediate purchase, eliminating extended waiting periods.

For financial flexibility, DG Motors offers installment plans with only 20% down payment, making Chinese brand vehicles accessible to more consumers. Interested buyers can visit DG Motors’ official website to explore detailed specifications, configurations, and stay updated with the latest automotive news and purchasing guides.

Summary of New Car Brands in Cambodia

What This Means for Cambodia

The arrival of these new brands signifies major developments for Cambodia:

• Economic Growth: Local assembly and manufacturing investments from BYD and Chevrolet create jobs, transfer skills, and develop local industrial and supply chain capabilities.
• Consumer Choice: Cambodian consumers can now access a wider range of modern, high-tech vehicles, particularly in the previously limited EV segment. Importers like DG Motors further expand these choices with immediate availability.
• Green Transition: The focus on EVs and PHEVs supports a shift toward more sustainable and eco-friendly transportation, aligning with global environmental trends and potentially reducing fossil fuel reliance.
• Strategic Position: International manufacturers increasingly see Cambodia as a strategic production and export base within the ASEAN region.

The Future of Driving in Cambodia

Cambodia’s automotive market is evolving from import dependency to an emerging hub for vehicle production and technological adoption. With major brands like BYD and Chevrolet establishing local factories and others introducing their latest electric models, Cambodian consumers and the economy will benefit from greater choice, advanced technology, and increased economic activity.

The expansion of dealership networks like DG Motors, with their Phnom Penh showrooms and diverse Chinese brand inventories, makes exploring these new options more accessible than ever for Cambodian consumers. The road ahead for Cambodia’s auto industry appears increasingly electric and interconnected with global trends.