BYD imports continue: John Keells CG Auto (JKCG)

All imports of BYD plug-in electric vehicles remain unaffected and continue as scheduled, in spite of the challenges raised in clearing an imported fleet of BYD vehicles due to the ongoing crisis in determining the motor capacity, assured John Keells CG Auto (JKCG).

The company publicly informed this Issuing a statement to update their clientele and stakeholders of the ongoing proceedings before the Court of Appeal regarding the BYD vehicles detained by the Sri Lanka Customs and related developments. JKCG informed that warranties, spare parts, and related services will be fully supported by BYD and JKCG.

JKCG further noted: “We have sought interim relief from the Courts to obtain the release of our electric vehicles (EV), we continue to engage with the Sri Lanka Customs to clear shipments of the remaining vehicles.”

The company emphasised that the time taken for a resolution to this matter being unexpectedly extended has currently created a challenging task for the company, unable to confirm delivery timelines to their customers. The company informs that they have directly contacted the affected customers.

As reported in the media earlier, Sri Lanka Customs has appointed a committee of its own accord which is expected to consider some technical matters, raised by Sri Lanka Customs. JKCG notes that the company is acting in complete cooperation with all relevant authorities and have provided the globally accepted manufacturer’s specifications and compliance documentation to the ongoing investigations. The company pointed out that they have forwarded to the committee all information they have received from the manufacturer, and will continue to do so as the investigations progress.

However, JKCG continues to emphasise that the best option to resolve the matter and release the vehicles is to subject the select vehicle models to be tested at an independent, internationally-accredited laboratory to ascertain and clear any concerns regarding the output of the motor capacity. “This will ensure accuracy, credibility and consistency, and we have already intimated this suggestion to Sri Lanka Customs, during and outside of Court proceedings,” the company noted.