Latest in EV news, technologies, data and insights from China market
BYD’s May vehicle sales reached 376,990, rising 19.4% from April, with battery-electric vehicles surpassing plug-in hybrids for the first time. Global expansion and advanced technologies drive growth amid supply constraints.
Zeekr reported May deliveries of 34,377 vehicles, an 81.8% year-on-year increase. The brand focuses on premium models, achieving significant market share and plans for expanded overseas growth amid intensified competition.
BYD has shipped 7,273 new-energy vehicles, primarily plug-in hybrids, to Europe, focusing on markets like Italy and Spain. Demand is high due to favorable trade policies, with exports setting new records.
Li Auto’s recent test of the L9 Livis SUV covered 1,422.8 km from Beijing to Shanghai, achieving a pure EV range of 327.4 km before the range extender activated, demonstrating efficient energy management.
Geely launched the updated Xingyuan on May 28, featuring six variants priced between 61.8K–91.8K RMB. The refresh enhances range, cockpit, and smart driving capabilities, with a new 47 kWh battery boosting range to 480 km. The model has seen over 700K deliveries and performs well in global markets like Brazil and Malaysia.
DENZA Auto’s new Z9 GT model has achieved over 10,000 deliveries in two and a half months since its March 5 launch. Priced between 269.8K–369.8K RMB, it offers electric and hybrid options with impressive ranges. The model emphasizes advanced battery technology and performance, aiming to boost brand visibility globally after facing previous sales declines.
Porsche slashes production by half and cuts jobs after a 92.7% profit drop and 26% China sales decline. Meanwhile, Xiaomi’s Nürburgring lap times beat Porsche models, as Chinese EV makers shift consumer focus from brand prestige to smart performance.
2026 AITO M9 launched from $69.6K with six-lidar matrix and Huawei ADS 5; pre-orders exceeded 70K, but April sales fell to 3,382.
BYD holds its “Dare to Lead” smart strategy event on May 28, following its March Blade Battery launch. Speculation centers on a self-developed Xuanji chip, an AI model, and possibly solid-state battery details.
China’s auto imports fell 33% in April to 27K units, extending a long-term decline, while NEV imports dropped sharply to just 2% share. Japan remained the top source, with Lexus leading the luxury segment as demand shifts toward domestic models.