BYD, in targeting a major market, already sells EVs and plug-in electric hybrids in many smaller countries and regions, including Norway, New Zealand, Singapore, Brazil, Costa Rica and Colombia.

The SUV version of the Crown sedan, a staple in Japan for decades and the first Toyota exported to U.S., will be available as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid and EV, and sold in Japan, China and North America, sources tell Reuters.