Announcement

Nexteer Automotive announced the opening of a new assembly facility in Camaçari, Bahia, Brazil. Production began in early October 2026, adding to its South American manufacturing network that already includes a main plant in Porto Alegre (south) and a facility in Porto Real, Rio de Janeiro (southeast).

Facility Details

The Camaçari plant will perform final assembly and logistics for Column‑Assist Electric Power Steering (CEPS) systems destined for vehicles produced in Brazil. It is situated approximately 10 km from BYD’s manufacturing operations in the same city, enabling close collaboration and faster supply‑chain response. The operation will use components and sub‑assemblies sourced from Nexteer’s global manufacturing network while leveraging local production capabilities.

Strategic Rationale

Country Director – Brazil Jeferson Oliveira said the opening marks an important milestone for Nexteer’s commitment to localized manufacturing and that proximity to BYD will enhance supply‑chain efficiency, responsiveness and collaboration while delivering high‑quality steering solutions. Vice President and EMEASA Divisional President Alberto Rodriguez emphasized that Brazil is a key market for vehicle production and Nexteer’s long‑term growth, and that the investment aligns with the company’s strategy to support customers through localized production and to contribute to Brazil’s automotive industry development. BYD Brazil Director of Purchasing Zheng Qiong noted that developing a localized supplier network is crucial for vehicle production in Brazil and welcomed Nexteer’s investment.

Company Profile

Nexteer Automotive (HK 1316) is a global motion‑control technology company offering electric and hydraulic power‑steering systems, steer‑by‑wire, rear‑wheel steering, steering columns, driveline systems, software solutions and brake‑by‑wire. Its portfolio serves OEMs such as BMW, Ford, GM, Stellantis, Toyota, VW and Chinese manufacturers including BYD, Xiaomi, ChangAn, Li Auto, Chery, Great Wall, Geely and Xpeng.

Impact

The new Camaçari facility expands Nexteer’s footprint in Brazil’s northeast, complements existing plants, and is expected to improve supply‑chain responsiveness for BYD’s growing vehicle production in the country.