- China’s automakers, led by BYD and Nio, are rapidly expanding globally with cutting-edge EV technologies and strategic partnerships.
- BYD plans to install 4,000 new charging stations, while Nio is developing an advanced battery-swapping network in collaboration with CATL.
- Despite high European tariffs, Chinese automakers like BYD and Xpeng continue their push into Europe, solidifying their global dominance in the EV market.
China’s automakers are rapidly expanding in the global EV market through cutting-edge technologies and strategic partnerships, outpacing competitors—government subsidies and potent domestic demand fuel China’s growing dominance in electric vehicles.
Last month, global EV sales surged to 1.2 million units, marking a 50% year-over-year increase. China contributed a quarter of those sales. BYD led the charge, selling 87,473 new energy vehicles, with 43,173 being all-electric models, reflecting a 764% increase from last year.
“China is seeing an electric renaissance, moving away from hybrids,” said Rho Motion data manager Charles Lester. BYD, despite high tariffs, continues to expand both locally and globally.
BYD’s Chair, Wang Chuanu, announced plans to add 4,000 new charging stations, though he did not specify a timeline. Tesla already operates 2,000 charging stations in China, while Nio runs 2,700 fast-charging stations.
Nio has partnered with CATL, the world’s largest battery maker, to build the “most advanced” battery-swapping network for passenger cars. Nio currently operates 3,172 Power Swap Stations in over 700 cities and aims to add 2,300 more by the end of the year.
“These developments rank among the biggest in China’s auto industry this year,” said Lei Xing, co-host of the “China EVs & More” podcast and a Chinese auto industry expert.
Xiaomi, a new entrant in the EV market, reported a 50% increase in Q4 revenue and raised its 2025 sales target to 350,000 units. Xiaomi delivered 136,854 SU7 sedans last year and committed $10 billion to EV production over the next decade. CEO Lu Weibing outlined plans to export EVs by 2027, noting the brand’s growing global presence.
Chinese automakers face tariffs of up to 45.3% in the European Union but continue to expand through partnerships. BYD, Xpeng, Chery Auto, and SAIC Motor are developing strategies for the European market. BYD is considering building an assembly plant in Germany, adding to its existing operations in Hungary and Turkey.
“If there are no trade barriers, Chinese automakers will outcompete most global car companies,” said Tesla CEO Elon Musk in January 2024, praising the efficiency of China’s automakers.
BYD has expanded into over 70 countries, selling 1.76 million battery EVs in 2024, just behind Tesla’s 1.79 million. In total, BYD sold 4.27 million new energy vehicles last year.
Beyond hardware, Chinese automakers are advancing in AI. Brands like Zeekr and Xpeng offer hands-free driving, while BYD’s “God’s Eye” autonomous driving system comes standard in all vehicles, disrupting competitors like Tesla, which charge for similar features.
BYD’s recent launch of the “Super e-Platform” allows ultra-fast charging, delivering 292 miles of range in just five minutes. This further solidifies its technological lead over rivals like Tesla and Zeekr.
China’s automakers continue to innovate, reshaping the global EV market. While regulatory challenges may arise, their dominance in EV production and technology suggests they will remain major players in the worldwide auto industry.