Pictured from left to right: Beknur Nesipbayev, CEO of Astana Motors; Aivan Tsao, BYD Director for Central Asia; Darhan Satybaldy, Mayor of Almaty; and Nurlan Smagulov, Founder of Astana Motors. Photo courtesy of the Almaty City Administration press service archive

Almaty Mayor Darhan Satybaldy held a working meeting with BYD's CEO for Central Asia, Aivan Tsao, and the management of Astana Motors company. The parties discussed prospects for expanding cooperation in electric vehicle production and localizing advanced technologies in Kazakhstan.

The discussion focused on plans to launch electric bus production at the Astana Motors commercial vehicle plant in Almaty. The project involves the phased localization of electric public transport production, representing a major step in modernizing the city's transportation infrastructure toward sustainability.

Credit: BYD press service

BYD plans to introduce its newest generation of B12 electric city buses in Kazakhstan. A key feature of this model is its Blade battery, which is built into the chassis. The batteries function as structural components, acting as beams that increase overall rigidity. This configuration reduces the center of gravity by 40% and boosts the roll angle by 47%, enhancing stability and control, with the 10% weight decrease improving range and reducing power consumption.

BYD's innovative Blade battery has been put through rigorous testing under extreme conditions and is acknowledged as one of the safest in the world. Blade Battery underwent a successful nail penetration test with no fire or smoke. Furthermore, the battery features a long service life backed by a 10-year warranty or 80% residual capacity (SOH).

The parties also explored the possibility of producing specialized vehicles on BYD's platform, such as ambulances and utility vehicles.

Credit: BYD press service

Established in China in 1995, BYD (Build Your Dreams) has become one of the global leaders in electric transportation and contactless charging systems. BYD produces more than 30,000 passenger transport units each year.

As of today, 110,000 all-electric BYD buses have been sold and are being used in over 400 cities spanning 70 countries, including the US, Canada, and more than 20 nations across Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Africa.

BYD shows strong interest in markets across Central Asia, the Commonwealth of Independent States, and the Caucasus region. For example, a contract was signed with Azerbaijan in 2024 for the supply of 160 electric buses.

In addition to buses, BYD produces a broad spectrum of commercial electric transport, including sanitation, utility, and delivery vehicles.

Chinese manufacturers are increasingly seeking partnerships with Kazakh companies. Kazakhstan appeals to BYD due to its strategic positioning, established industrial foundation, and transparent dialogue with the government that supports eco-friendly initiatives. Collaborating with partners like Astana Motors gives BYD the opportunity to localize production and promote contemporary transportation options, making green vehicles more available and attainable for people in Kazakhstan.