Sri Lanka’s electric vehicle dream faces another shock as John Keells CG Auto suspends advance payments for BYD cars, leaving customers caught between refunds, hybrid alternatives, and uncertainty over Customs disputes.
Sri Lanka’s push toward electric mobility has hit another roadblock, with John Keells C.G. Auto (JKCG) announcing the suspension of advance payments for BYD electric vehicles. The decision comes in the midst of an ongoing legal battle at the Court of Appeal concerning BYD vehicle stocks detained by Sri Lanka Customs, raising fresh doubts and frustrations among customers.
In its official statement, JKCG explained that discussions are underway with Sri Lanka Customs to release the vehicle stocks that it believes have been unjustly held. The company noted that despite seeking interim relief, no resolution has been reached yet, prolonging the standoff. A technical committee appointed by Customs is now expected to review the matter, and JKCG has expressed full confidence in a fair outcome.
To clear the air, JKCG has reiterated its readiness to subject selected BYD models to testing at an internationally recognized independent automotive laboratory. The company stressed that such independent testing would establish accuracy, reliability and consistency regarding the disputed engine capacity output. By relying on globally accepted manufacturer specifications and conformity documents, JKCG insists its position remains transparent and trustworthy.
Acknowledging the mounting frustration among customers, JKCG has rolled out three options. Customers may switch to the BYD SEALION 6 plug-in hybrid at a special discounted rate, receive a refund with interest before October 10, or retain their existing orders until Customs delivers a final decision or tax assessment. However, JKCG confirmed that until the dispute is resolved, no new down payments will be requested, though orders for BYD electric vehicles will continue to be accepted.
The company assured its existing BYD electric vehicle and plug-in hybrid customers that warranties, spare parts and after-sales services will remain fully supported by both BYD and JKCG. Looking ahead, the company pledged continued investments in charging infrastructure, expanding its showroom network, and strengthening after-sales service capabilities to build confidence in the long-term EV ecosystem.
JKCG emphasized that it has extended full cooperation to relevant authorities and reaffirmed its commitment to conducting business with integrity and transparency. By maintaining trust in independent inspections and global documentation standards, the company believes the ongoing controversy can be resolved fairly, paving the way for Sri Lanka’s EV sector to grow without political or bureaucratic disruptions.
Sri Lanka’s electric vehicle journey, already challenged by high taxes, inconsistent policies and infrastructure gaps, now faces another test of resilience. For many customers, the current standoff is more than a delivery delay, it is a critical moment that will decide whether Sri Lanka can genuinely transition to cleaner, greener mobility.
