Business Desk 
Apr 23, 2025
An undated image. — Depositphotos
In a move likely to be a cornerstone for future electric vehicle-centred (EV-centred) technologies, Saudi Arabia’s state-backed oil giant Aramco and Chinese EV maker BYD have inked a deal to develop new-energy vehicle technologies.
Announced on Monday at the Shanghai Motor Show, the partnership will bring innovations to improve both the efficiency and environmental performance of EVs.
While financial details of the deal have not been disclosed, it marks a major step in Aramco’s expanding footprint in the automotive sector. The state-backed oil company in Saudi Arabia is already working with Renault and Geely on producing next-generation thermal engines.
As a result of this collaboration, Saudi Aramco Technologies Company (SATC), one of Aramco's subsidiaries, will now collaborate with BYD.
“This partnership supports our wider efforts to explore ways to improve transport efficiency, from low-carbon fuels to advanced powertrain systems,” said Ali A. Al-Meshari, Aramco’s Senior Vice President of Technology Oversight.
BYD’s Senior Vice President Luo Hongbin added that the alliance will combine SATC’s expertise with BYD’s cutting-edge R&D to develop efficient, low-carbon transport solutions.
With CEER, its own EV brand, slated to begin production this year, Saudi Arabia also plans to install 5,000 EV charging stations by 2030 and is backing EV ventures through its sovereign wealth fund.
