Sri Lanka’s electric vehicle (EV) sector is facing fresh turmoil as the National People’s Power (NPP) government detained nearly 1,000 BYD Atto 3 cars this week over alleged tax irregularities linked to motor capacity. The move has sparked confusion among consumers, importers, and industry watchers, raising serious questions about the government’s approach to regulation and its impact on ordinary citizens.
Authorities cited that the BYD Atto 3 imported with a 100kW motor in Sri Lanka is sold with a 150kW motor in Australia and Thailand. While the government claims this affects tax classification, critics say the real issue lies in inconsistent enforcement. A previous shipment faced similar scrutiny but was cleared only after a court ruling, leaving buyers and businesses uncertain about compliance rules.
The problem extends beyond BYD. Other EV brands, including Deepal, Tata, MG, GAC, and Dongfeng, also offer models in Sri Lanka with lower power outputs than those sold overseas. Examples include the Deepal S07 with 99kW locally versus 160kW in Australia, the Tata Currve with 98kW locally versus 123kW abroad, and the GAC Aion Y with 100kW here versus 150kW internationally.
Customs Director General Seevali Arukgoda announced a committee will be appointed this week to conduct tests on detained vehicles. While officials insist the review will ensure compliance, importers and buyers are already facing delays, financial losses, and uncertainty about their purchases. For the average consumer, this means delayed access to greener, more affordable vehicles and frustration over lack of clear government guidance.
Industry analysts warn that Sri Lanka’s unclear and shifting policy approach is undermining public trust. EV makers often release the same model with multiple outputs in different markets for pricing, tax, or range optimization reasons, a practice well-known globally. Without clear local regulations reflecting these realities, consumers bear the brunt, left in limbo while the government figures out its stance.
For a country seeking to cut fuel imports, promote cleaner transport, and meet climate commitments, policy inconsistency comes at a high cost to the public. Citizens and businesses alike are left questioning why governance delays continue to impede access to modern technology, leaving the EV market—and the public’s interests stuck at customs.
