Yemen embraces sustainable future with BYD electric vehicle launch

Yemen is taking a significant step toward a sustainable future with the launch of Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker BYD's first showroom and charging infrastructure in the capital city of Aden in early May.

As fuel shortages weigh heavily on Yemeni households, EVs are transitioning from a luxury to a necessity. BYD's official entry into the Yemeni market provides a practical alternative for a population already familiar with solar energy.

"We are proud to represent BYD, the world's leading EV manufacturer, here at Al-Ittihad International. We are providing tangible solutions for the transport sector through clean, alternative energy, meeting our customers' needs," said Amin Qasim Al-Houthari, chairman of Al-Ittihad International.

This expansion aligns with China's green Belt and Road Initiative, emphasizing sustainable development through Chinese innovation. For many in Aden, the shift to electric and hybrid models is a logical step. Having relied on decentralized solar power for years, the transition to EVs represents the final piece of the energy independence puzzle.

"The arrival of BYD is a major milestone for us. It offers a vital alternative for citizens burdened by the fuel crisis and skyrocketing petrol prices. These electric vehicles significantly ease the daily struggle," said Imad Al-Matari, a local resident.

While the road to a full green transition remains long, the arrival of world-leading EV technology marks a significant milestone, signaling a new chapter of resilience powered by China-Yemen cooperation.

Yemen embraces sustainable future with BYD electric vehicle launch

Chicago youth said the United States should not view China as its No.1 enemy and the two countries should have more technological exchanges.

The youth expressed themselves in random street interviews with China Global Television Network (CGTN).

They said there are competitions between China and the U.S., but China is doing a great job of building their cities.

"China is doing a good job with how it's handling the U.S. given the volatility of the government here," said a local resident.

"We're definitely in competition economically speaking," said another interviewee.

"I don't think there's necessarily a reason why they have to then be enemy number one in that sense. They're doing a great job kind of building up their cities. I think we have a lot to learn from them," said still another interviewee.

In terms of China's technological advancement, the interviewees said China's automobile industry is developing at a rapid pace and they are looking forward to seeing more Chinese cars in the U.S. and more technological exchanges between two sides.

"Chinese vehicles, I would love to see them in the U.S. I think they're miles ahead in terms of production and cost and especially electronic vehicles," said an interviewee.

"Probably some more Chinese cars here. Really cheap, really great cars from what I hear and what I saw when I was there," said another interviewee.

"I feel like there's a lot to learn like technology-wise. I feel like the U.S. kind of holds itself back," said still another interviewee.

Random street interviews catch Chicago youth's impression on China