Chinese automakers are leading the global zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) market, according to a report released by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT).
The report highlights China’s growing dominance as electric vehicle sales in the country now exceed 11 million units annually, making up more than half of global EV sales.
The ICCT found that Chinese companies hold the top five positions in ZEV class coverage and five of the top six spots in EV sales share. Companies such as Geely and SAIC have already reached their 2025 EV sales targets ahead of schedule, each surpassing a 50% EV sales share.
BYD surpassed Tesla in global battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales for the first time in 2024. BYD posted a 25% rise in BEV sales and a 47% increase in combined BEV and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) sales compared to the previous year. Both companies were placed in the “Leaders” category by ICCT.
Electric vehicle sales in China exceeded one million units in a single month for the first time this year, driven by strong domestic demand and exports.
Drew Kodjak, president and CEO of the ICCT, said the global auto industry must act quickly to stay competitive as China-based automakers expand internationally. He said the issue is no longer about meeting future targets, but about competing in today’s fast-moving EV market.
