Chinese automakers have expanded their dominance in the global electric vehicle (EV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) market, securing a 76% market share without selling a single car in the United States, according to recent data from Rho Motion. The companies have focused on growth in Europe and emerging markets, where they have made substantial gains in EV adoption.
In Europe, Chinese manufacturers have established a foothold in key markets. In Germany, they accounted for 4% of the 578,000 EVs sold last year, while their share was higher in the UK (7%), France (5%), and Spain (10%).
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The strongest European presence was in Austria, where Chinese EVs comprised 11% of total sales. Their market penetration also reached 6% in the Netherlands, 5% in Sweden, 8% in Norway, and 3% in Belgium.
Chinese automakers have achieved even greater success outside Europe. In Brazil, they accounted for 82% of all EV and PHEV sales in 2024, while in Thailand, their share reached 77%. Mexico (70%), Indonesia (75%), and Malaysia (52%) also saw significant Chinese EV market penetration. In Israel, 64% of EV and PHEV deliveries came from Chinese brands, while Australia and New Zealand recorded 26% and 15% shares, respectively.
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The rapid expansion of Chinese EVs is partly attributed to the absence of strong domestic competition in several of these markets. Additionally, China’s EV industry has benefited from approximately $231 billion in government subsidies and financial aid from 2009 through 2023, contributing to the affordability of its EVs. This competitive pricing has helped Chinese manufacturers establish a strong presence worldwide.
“China’s EV industry has received extensive government support, allowing manufacturers to offer more affordable vehicles and gain a foothold in key international markets,” said an industry analyst.
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