BYD Deepens Brazil Push With São Paulo SkyRail Test, Blade Battery Bus Delivery
BYD is solidifying its position in Brazil's public transportation sector, signaling a deepening commitment to the Latin American market with the successful testing of its São Paulo monorail project and the introduction of its latest electric bus technology.
The Chinese electric vehicle and battery manufacturer announced on Wednesday that its Chairman and President, Wang Chuanfu, had overseen tests for the São Paulo Metro's Line 17-Gold monorail, which utilizes BYD's SkyRail technology. The inspection took place in São Paulo on October 8, 2025.
Concurrently, Wang delivered the city's first 22-meter articulated electric bus to São Paulo Mayor Ricardo Nunes. The vehicle is notably equipped with the company’s proprietary Blade Battery, marking the technology's expansion into Brazil's commercial vehicle segment.
The high-profile event, also attended by São Paulo State Governor Tarcísio de Freitas and other senior executives including BYD Executive Vice President Stella Li, underscores the company's strategy of deploying a comprehensive suite of green transportation solutions as it seeks to become a key partner for cities decarbonizing their urban transit networks.
SkyRail Nears Completion
The Line 17-Gold project is a critical infrastructure development for São Paulo. The monorail line, which runs for approximately 6.7 kilometers, will connect with two other metro lines, enhancing connectivity for residents. The system is slated to begin operations in 2026 and is projected to serve around 100,000 passengers daily.
The project will deploy 14 five-car trains, each with a maximum capacity of 616 passengers and dedicated spaces for people with reduced mobility. "The delivery of the Line 17 SkyRail trains is an important milestone for the development of public transport in Brazil," said Alexandre Barbosa, BYD Brazil's SkyRail Technical Director, adding that Wang's presence symbolized the company's "firm confidence and bright prospects" in the country.
Advanced E-Bus Hits the Streets
The newly delivered electric bus, model BC22LE, represents a significant technological step for São Paulo's bus fleet. The 22-meter-long vehicle can carry up to 160 passengers, addressing the high-density needs of a major metropolis.
Powered by a 642 kWh Blade Battery, the bus supports fast-charging and has a stated range of up to 350 kilometers under real-world urban conditions. According to BYD, the pure electric model can reduce operating costs by up to 70% compared to traditional diesel buses, while also improving comfort for passengers and drivers. "We are entering a new phase in the supply of municipal public transport products," commented Marcello Schneider, Director of BYD Brazil's Commercial Vehicle and Solar division. "The quality trusted by our passenger car customers is now extending to our 100% pure electric buses."
Expanding Clean Energy Footprint
From urban rail to advanced electric buses, BYD's recent moves in São Paulo showcase a multi-pronged strategy to embed its clean energy technology within Brazil's urban fabric. The twin developments demonstrate the company's ambition to be a full-service provider for public transport modernization. By introducing its core technologies like the SkyRail and Blade Battery, BYD aims to secure a foundational role in Brazil's ongoing transition to cleaner, more efficient transportation systems.