A Chinese worker has died following a workplace accident at the construction site of BYD’s new car factory in Szeged, southern Hungary.
According to the Csongrád-Csanád County Police Headquarters, the fatal incident occurred on Thursday within the construction area of the factory.
Police said a lorry travelling on the site had stopped next to a loader machine. After the loader operator signalled that the route was clear, the truck began moving again. At the same moment, a worker stepped between the two vehicles and was struck by the lorry.
Despite efforts by paramedics and the crew of an air ambulance helicopter, the man’s life could not be saved.
Emergency services unable to save victim
The National Ambulance Service confirmed to Magyar Hang that multiple emergency units, including a rescue helicopter, were dispatched to the scene. Despite resuscitation attempts, the man’s life could not be saved,” ambulance officials said. Police have launched criminal proceedings on suspicion of causing a fatal traffic accident.
Second fatality reported at the project this year
This incident is not the first fatal accident linked to the construction of BYD’s flagship Hungarian investment. In February, another worker died at the site. Following that incident, authorities launched an investigation on suspicion of negligent endangerment resulting in death in the course of employment.
The Szeged plant is one of BYD’s most important overseas projects and is set to become the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer’s first passenger car factory in Europe.
Construction project faces multiple challenges
In May, authorities launched an investigation into suspected environmental damage after the Csongrád-Csanád County Government Office filed a complaint alleging that soil exceeding contamination limits had been deposited at several external locations instead of being handled in accordance with environmental permit requirements.
Meanwhile, according to Telex, BYD Executive Vice President Stella Li recently stated that vehicle assembly at the Szeged factory is now expected to begin only in the fourth quarter of this year, representing a delay compared with earlier plans.
The company had originally indicated that production of the Dolphin Surf compact electric vehicle could begin at the factory by the end of 2025.
Daily News Hungary contacted BYD
Daily News Hungary has contacted the company regarding the fatal accident and whether it has received information about the circumstances surrounding the death of the Chinese worker. Below is their reply:
“BYD was deeply shocked and sincerely saddened to learn of the accident that occurred on June 18 at the construction site of the Szeged project. Despite all efforts to provide emergency medical care, the subcontractor’s employee involved in the accident unfortunately passed away.
Our thoughts are with the bereaved family, and we extend our sincere condolences to them during this difficult time.
The cause of the accident is still under investigation, and the company is fully cooperating with the relevant local authorities throughout the ongoing investigation.”
If you missed it: Exclusive interview: China’s ambassador to Hungary talks government ties, the Budapest–Belgrade railway and more
