Stella Li, vice president of Chinese electric car giant BYD, has confirmed that talks are underway with Formula 1 chief Stefano Domenicali. The Chinese brand, which has overtaken Tesla to become the largest seller of electric vehicles in the global market, is now aiming to be represented in the premier motorsport series. Sport24.az reports that while BYD has previously had close contact with Formula E, it is now focusing more on Formula 1. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem also stated some time ago that he would welcome the addition of a twelfth team to the championship, especially a Chinese company.
Speaking at the Beijing Auto Show, Stella Li noted that she met with Stefano Domenicali in Shanghai:
"We maintain a cordial relationship with Stefano and are in regular contact. I love Formula 1 because it's about passion and culture, people dream of racing there."
When asked about the possibility of BYD participating in the races in the future, Stella Li firmly replied: "Yes, we are in talks about this. It's a real opportunity to test our technology."
It is not yet known whether the Chinese giant will join the race as a new team or collaborate with one of the existing teams.