Updated
Updated · CNBC · Jun 25
Second Worker Dies at BYD Hungary EV Site as Contractor Draws $110,350 Fine
Updated
Updated · CNBC · Jun 25

Second Worker Dies at BYD Hungary EV Site as Contractor Draws $110,350 Fine

1 articles · Updated · CNBC · Jun 25

Summary

  • A worker died on June 18 at BYD's EV factory construction site in Szeged after being struck by a lorry, marking the second death there since February.
  • Hungary's National Ambulance Service said paramedics failed to revive the worker despite a rescue helicopter and multiple emergency units being dispatched; authorities are investigating.
  • AIM Construction Hungary, a subsidiary tied to BYD's 2024 Brazil labor scandal, was fined 34.5 million forints over occupational safety issues and warned over registration, working-time and contract violations.
  • Two other firms at the site were also cited for labor non-compliance, adding to scrutiny after China Labor Watch alleged forced labor, seven-day workweeks and withheld wages earlier this year.
  • The death comes weeks after BYD executive vice president Stella Li denied labor-abuse allegations and said the company welcomed inspectors, with full production at the plant still targeted for Q3 2026.

Insights

Two deaths and millions in fines: Is this the true cost of BYD's rapid European expansion?
As abuse claims mount from Brazil to Hungary, can BYD's promises of ethical standards be trusted?