In May 2026, SAIC Motor became China's first automaker to reach 100 million in cumulative vehicle production and sales, breaking the monopoly held by the United States, Japan, Germany, and South Korea.
This milestone serves as a microcosm of the growing global popularity of Chinese automobiles.
In 2025, China's automobile production and sales reached 34.531 million and 34.40 million units, respectively, up 10.4% and 9.4% respectively, ranking first globally for 17 consecutive years.
For new energy vehicles, China recorded production of 16.626 million units and sales of 16.49 million units, representing year-on-year increases of 29% and 28.2%, respectively. It has ranked first globally for 11 consecutive years.
From securing a record 15% share of Europe's electric vehicle market and dominating 86% of Thailand's pure electric vehicle sector to leading car sales in the UK and ending Japan's 28-year dominance in Australia, Chinese vehicles are expanding their global presence with outstanding cost performance, advanced intelligent technologies, and reliable new energy capabilities.
Reporter, Video & Poster | Huang Xinyi
Intern Zeng Zhuorui contributed to the story.
