In a landmark shift for China’s automotive market, new energy vehicles (NEVs) have outsold traditional fuel-powered cars for the first time. According to July data from the China Passenger Car Association, NEVs, which include battery-only and hybrid vehicles, comprised 51% of new passenger car sales in the country.
This represents a significant increase from 36% a year ago and a notable rise from just under one-third in January. Despite the breakthrough, there has been skepticism about the reliability of the association’s data. The latest figures reveal that battery-only cars accounted for 28% of sales, with hybrids also showing strong demand.
In comparison, the U.S. Energy Information Association reported a 18% penetration rate for new energy vehicles in the first quarter of the year. Monthly sales data from major Chinese automakers like BYD and Li Auto indicate a growing consumer preference for hybrid vehicles over purely electric models.
The surge in NEV sales highlights a major shift in consumer behavior and market dynamics in China’s automotive industry, underscoring the country’s accelerating transition toward sustainable transportation.
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