Runner Automobiles has approved a landmark supply and manufacturing agreement with China's electric vehicle giant BYD Auto Industry Company, a move widely seen as a turning point for Bangladesh's evolving automobile industry.
The decision came at a meeting of the board of directors of Runner Automobiles on March 20, where the board also reviewed the prevailing business climate and charted the company's strategic priorities.
"The partnership is expected to mark a significant milestone for Bangladesh's automotive sector, creating opportunities for local manufacturing and technology transfer," reads a stock exchange filing on Tuesday.
The board expressed strong confidence in the long-term strategic value of the partnership.
The agreement will enable Runner Automobiles to collaborate closely with BYD in supply, manufacturing, and potentially assembly operations.
The agreement marks one of the most high-profile collaborations in Bangladesh's automotive sector to date. For Runner Automobiles, it represents a strategic leap toward advanced manufacturing and technological integration.
The deal would facilitate technology transfer, allowing Runner to gain access to advanced EV platforms, battery systems, and manufacturing expertise-areas where BYD has established global dominance.
The partnership is also expected to accelerate the development of Bangladesh's domestic automobile manufacturing capabilities, which have so far remained limited compared to regional peers.
Following the news, Runner Automobiles' stock jumped 9.97 per cent to Tk 37.5 per share on Tuesday on the Dhaka Stock Exchange.
The Chinese firm, headquartered in Shenzhen, is a global leader in electric vehicles (EVs), batteries, and clean energy solutions.
BYD's expertise in battery technology and EV ecosystems positions the partnership as a potential catalyst for Bangladesh's transition toward greener mobility solutions.
The deal comes at a time when Bangladesh is exploring pathways to cleaner and more sustainable transportation. With global pressure mounting to reduce carbon emissions, electric vehicles are gaining traction as a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-powered cars.
Runner's business performance
Runner Automobiles returned to profit in FY25, driven by robust sales growth, particularly in the three-wheeler segment, after enduring losses for the previous two years.
The motorcycle manufacturer made a consolidated profit of Tk 102 million in FY25 against a loss of Tk 61 million in FY24. Runner also suffered a loss of Tk 880 million in FY23.
Returning to profit, the company declared a 10 per cent cash dividend for FY25, compared to the 11 per cent paid for the previous year.
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