Nexteer opens Brazil steering plant to supply BYD

Nexteer Automotive has opened a new assembly plant in Camaçari, Bahia, Brazil, to supply steering systems for BYD's local vehicle manufacturing operations. Production at the facility began in early October 2026.

The plant will assemble column-assist electric power steering (CEPS) systems for vehicles built in Brazil. Its activities focus on final assembly and logistics, utilizing components delivered from Nexteer's international manufacturing network. The site is located roughly 10km from BYD's manufacturing facilities in Camaçari.

This opening extends Nexteer's manufacturing footprint in Brazil. It complements the supplier's primary plant in Porto Alegre in the south and its Porto Real site in the state of Rio de Janeiro.

Strategic Expansion

The new plant strengthens Nexteer's presence in Brazil and supports its broader strategy of localizing production near major automakers. This move is a mid-cycle confirmation of the company's approach to establishing manufacturing alongside key OEMs in growth regions.

The expansion follows another recent investment in Nexteer's global network. The supplier opened a site in Liuzhou, China, in late last month. That plant extends across more than 40,000 square meters and features modern production equipment, research and development spaces, laboratories, a test track, and an employee centre.

Supply Chain Benefits

The facility enhances supply chain responsiveness and operational efficiency by producing CEPS systems close to BYD's manufacturing operations. Nexteer stated the investment enhances supply chain responsiveness and operational efficiency while providing localized support for BYD’s vehicle production in the region.

Nexteer Automotive provides motion-control and steering systems. Its portfolio covers electric and hydraulic power steering, chassis software, steer-by-wire, and driveline systems. The company supplies international vehicle manufacturers including BYD, Ford, General Motors, Stellantis, Toyota, and Volkswagen.

In a related product development, Nexteer introduced a High Mount Direct Drive Steer-by-Wire Hand-Wheel Actuator in August. The company stated that the unit provides vehicle makers with greater flexibility in cockpit design for software-defined vehicles.

Executive Statement

Nexteer's Brazil country director emphasized the milestone as a commitment to localized manufacturing and customer support. Jeferson Oliveira said: "The opening of our Camaçari facility marks an important milestone in Nexteer’s continued commitment to supporting customers through localised manufacturing and supply."

He added that by locating the facility near BYD’s operations, the company can enhance supply chain efficiency, improve responsiveness, and strengthen collaboration. The plant supports localized supply for BYD's vehicle production in Brazil.