Summary
- Plugin vehicles had strong sales in China, with BEVs showing the fastest growth
- February saw plugin vehicles reach 50% market share in China
- BYD and Geely dominated the top positions in the overall ranking of best-selling models
- BYD Song, Geely Xingyuan, and BYD Seagull were among the top-selling models in February
- BYD continued to lead the overall manufacturer ranking in China, with Geely close behind
Article
In the Chinese auto market, plugin vehicles have been performing exceptionally well, even during slow months like February due to the Chinese New Year celebrations. In February, plugins accounted for 686,000 sales out of a total market of 1.39 million units. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) showed the fastest growth, with a 94% increase to 427,000 units, while Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) grew by 83% and Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) by 12%. The year-to-date tally for plugin vehicles surpassed 1.4 million units, and it is expected to exceed 2 million units by the end of Q1, with a market share of 50%.
February saw plugin vehicles achieve a remarkable 50% market share in China, a 15-percentage point increase from the same period the previous year. Full electric vehicles, specifically BEVs, accounted for 31% of auto sales in the country, a significant rise from the 22% share in February 2024. The market share for plugin vehicles in 2025 has reached 45%, with BEVs alone representing 27%. With projections for a strong finish in Q1, China’s plugin vehicle market share is expected to exceed 50% in the first half of the year, potentially reaching as high as 66% by the end of the year.
In the ranking of top-selling models, ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) models still held the top positions at the beginning of the year, but their presence has diminished compared to the previous year. BEVs like the BYD Song and models from Geely have shown strong performance, with BYD’s Model 3 making a significant impact in the market. Geely’s success in multiple size categories indicates a potential trend towards electric vehicles dominating various segments. However, Tesla’s Model Y, usually a strong contender, was surpassed by the Model 3 in terms of sales.
The best-selling models across different size categories in China predominantly consist of plugin vehicles, with ICE models only leading in the C segment (compact cars). Geely has emerged as a leading player, securing top positions in various segments with models like the Geely Xingyuan and Binyue. The overall trend indicates a shift towards electric vehicles dominating the market across different categories, with models from BYD, Geely, Xiaomi, and Wuling among the top sellers.
The BYD Song remains the top-selling model in China, followed by the Geely Xingyuan and BYD Seagull in the list of best-selling electric vehicles. Other notable models include the Xiaomi SU7, BYD Qin Plus, and Wuling Mini EV, reflecting the diverse range of options available to consumers in the Chinese market. Geely’s success with multiple models and strong performance from Xpeng and other manufacturers highlights the competitive landscape of the electric vehicle market in China.
In terms of market share, BYD and Geely continue to lead as the top auto brands selling electric vehicles in China. While BYD maintains a stable position at the top, Geely has demonstrated significant growth and competition. The overall market is witnessing a shift in rankings, with new entrants like Xpeng gaining ground and traditional players like Honda facing challenges. The Chinese electric vehicle market is showing dynamic growth, with various manufacturers vying for market share and introducing innovative models to attract consumers.
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