In January–August 2025, cumulative exports reached 4.292 million units, a YOY increase of 13.7%, of which NEV exports hit 1.532 million units, representing a striking 87.3% YoY surge.
According to the latest data from the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA), China’s automobile exports are sustaining rapid growth. Export value surged from $34.5 billion in 2021 to $117.4 billion in 2024, with monthly figures continuing to rise steadily this year.
| Year | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Annual Total | YoY Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 20 | 22 | 21 | 26 | 28 | 30 | 29 | 27 | 38 | 37 | 36 | 31 | 345 | — |
| 2022 | 25 | 40 | 41 | 42 | 49 | 47 | 60 | 63 | 66 | 63 | 67 | 39 | 602 | 74% |
| 2023 | 72 | 68 | 74 | 83 | 90 | 78 | 88 | 92 | 83 | 101 | 97 | 91 | 1017 | 69% |
| 2024 | 85 | 73 | 94 | 108 | 102 | 87 | 92 | 113 | 103 | 131 | 117 | 69 | 1124 | 11% |
| 2025 | 91 | 70 | 96 | 112 | 120 | 107 | 118 | 128 | — | — | — | — | 843 | 11% |
Data Source: Industry Coordination and Development Committee
In August, China exported 611,000 vehicles, up 6.2% from the previous month and 19.6% year-on-year. For the first eight months of 2025, cumulative exports reached 4.292 million units, an increase of 13.7% compared with the same period last year.
Among them, new energy vehicle (NEV) exports hit 1.532 million units, representing a striking 87.3% year-on-year surge.
Against this backdrop, on September 13 the Chinese government officially released the Automotive Industry Work Plan for Steady Growth (2025–2026).
The plan introduces a package of measures, including stronger promotion of NEV exports, while also seeking to maintain stable domestic market growth.
This year, China has set a target of 15.5 million NEV sales, up 20% from 2024. According to the overall plan, national auto sales are expected to reach 32.3 million units in 2025, representing a 3% increase, with NEVs accounting for 48% of the total.
For European carmakers, the policy carries particular significance. By initiating a stronger push into international markets, the plan aims to boost auto exports—including NEVs—while enhancing efficiency and quality.
The export strategy also includes financial support measures. Automakers are encouraged to conduct R&D tailored to target markets, expand global sales and service networks, and mitigate risks in overseas operations through tools such as bank loans, multi-currency settlement, and improved export credit insurance.
In fact, Chinese automakers including BYD, Changan, Leapmotor, MG, NIO, and XPeng have already stepped up their presence in Europe, underscoring the momentum of the “going global” strategy. With the new plan in place, more companies are expected to join the next wave of export expansion.
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