Chinese Automakers Overtake Japanese Brands in Europe
Chinese automotive brands sold more vehicles in Europe during a single quarter than Japanese competitors for the first time in history, according to data from Dataforce reported by Patria.cz. Registrations of Chinese brands roughly doubled year-over-year in September, capturing a 12.7 percent market share compared to 11.9 percent for Japanese manufacturers including Toyota. Five years ago, Chinese marques accounted for barely one percent of European sales.
Market Shifts and Rising Models
Chery emerged as a primary driver of this growth, with its Jaecoo 7 SUV becoming the top-selling model in the United Kingdom in both March and September, as reported by Patria.cz and Economic newspaper. Across the wider European market, BYD secured the second position among Chinese manufacturers with 49,374 registrations—a 102 percent annual increase—while SAIC finished third with 41,707 registrations. In the Czech Republic, the Chery group spanning Chery, Omoda, and Jaecoo recorded 3,564 new registrations in the first half of the year, up from 252 vehicles in the same period previously.
Regulatory Responses and Domestic Pressure
European regulators are moving to curb the influx of imports amid concerns over state subsidies. Following extra tariffs on battery-powered electric vehicles made in China, European Union member states reached a preliminary agreement this month to cap the growing import of hybrid vehicles from China at 350,000 units annually, as detailed by Patria.cz and Courses. Simultaneously, European automakers face eroding sales inside China, where local buyers increasingly favor domestic brands that release new models at lower costs, pressuring legacy groups such as Volkswagen and BMW.
Local Manufacturing Countermeasures
To bypass potential trade barriers, Chinese producers are establishing manufacturing footprints within Europe. Chery is preparing production facilities in Barcelona, BYD is completing a plant in Hungary, and Leapmotor has already begun manufacturing the B10 SUV at a Stellantis factory in Zaragoza, Spain, through a joint venture, according to Patria.cz and Courses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What market share did Chinese automakers reach in September?
Chinese brands hit a record monthly market share of 14.5 percent in September, up nearly three percentage points from August, according to data cited by Courses.
How are European authorities limiting vehicle imports from China?
The European Union provisionally agreed to restrict the import of Chinese hybrid vehicles to 350,000 units per year following earlier duties placed on battery-electric vehicles, as reported by Patria.cz.
Which Chinese factories are currently operational in Europe?
Leapmotor has commenced production of the B10 SUV at the Stellantis plant in Zaragoza, Spain, while Chery and BYD advance plans for production sites in Barcelona and Hungary, according to Courses.
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