Analysis of the Top 10 Best-Selling Car Brands in China 2024: Domination of Domestic Brands with Electrification as the Key Driver
In 2024, China’s automotive market is undergoing significant changes. Domestic brands have surged forward, especially with rapid advancements in electrification and smart technology, shifting the landscape that was previously dominated by joint ventures. Brands like BYD, Geely, and Changan are thriving in the domestic market with their innovative electric vehicle(EV) models. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the current state of China’s top 10 best-selling car brands in 2024, highlighting each brand’s flagship models and illustrating the transformative shifts in the Chinese automotive market.
Top-Selling Brands in China in 2024
ChinaCarHub.com
| Rank | Brand | Total Sales |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | BYD | 1,305,000 |
| 2 | Geely | 1,000,000 |
| 3 | Changan | 809,000 |
| 4 | SAIC-GM-Wuling | 800,000 |
| 5 | Chery | 750,000 |
| 6 | Toyota | 645,000 |
| 7 | Volkswagen | 620,000 |
| 8 | Li Auto | 500,000 |
| 9 | Tesla | 426,000 |
| 10 | Great Wall Motors | 400,000 |
1.BYD
Total Sales: Approximately 1.305 million units
Market Position: BYD maintains a dominant position with its focus on electric and intelligent technologies, leading the market with substantial sales through its “Dynasty” and “Ocean” series. In the first half of 2024 alone, BYD recorded sales of 1.305 million units, with popular models such as the Seagull and Han gaining popularity.
- Top Models:
- Seagull: This small all-electric car from BYD’s Ocean series has been a popular choice since its launch, thanks to its affordable price and extended range, targeting urban commuters.
- Han: The BYD Han offers luxurious features and long range, capturing a share of the mid-to-high-end market. Both its electric and hybrid versions are highly intelligent, making it a preferred choice for premium users.
BYD’s success has extended internationally, with sales growth in Europe and Southeast Asia exceeding 30% in 2024, demonstrating an accelerating internationalization process.
2.Geely
Total Sales: Approximately 1 million units
Market Position: Known for a strong combination of fuel-efficient and electric vehicles, Geely remains at the top of the sales charts, thanks to popular SUV and EV models. Geely has increased its R&D in electric vehicles while expanding into overseas markets, bolstering its high-end brands Zeekr and Lynk & Co.
- Top Models:
- Boyue: Geely’s flagship SUV with excellent handling and intelligent features, particularly popular in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.
- Emgrand EV: A key model in Geely’s electric sedan lineup, known for its range and comfortable driving experience, making it a formidable player in the EV market.
Geely’s focus on technical innovation and the introduction of high-end Lynk & Co brand has led to a 25% increase in SUV sales for Lynk & Co in 2024.
3.Changan
Total Sales: 809,000 units
Market Position: Changan’s balanced focus on fuel and electric vehicles has established it as a steady performer in China’s car market. In 2024, Changan ramped up investment in smart technology and EVs, collaborating with tech companies to develop intelligent driving systems. Through its sub-brand “DEEPAL ” Changan has also expanded its EV market share.
- Top Models:
- Eado PLUS: A stylish, well-equipped sedan popular among younger consumers.
- CS75 PLUS: This compact SUV with strong value and spaciousness has drawn many buyers, supporting Changan’s sales growth.
4.SAIC-GM-Wuling
Total Sales: 800,000 units
Market Position: Known for budget-friendly mini-EVs and family SUVs, Wuling has taken a substantial market share, with significant growth driven by demand for economical vehicles. In 2024, Wuling ramped up investment in the mini-EV segment, launching innovative models like the Wuling Bingo to attract younger and family-oriented consumers.
- Top Models:
- Hongguang MINI EV: This budget-friendly EV is popular in smaller cities and rural areas for its affordability and efficiency.
- Wuling Bingo: Targeted at families, the Bingo SUV is favored for its spacious interior and practical value.
5.Chery
Total Sales: 750,000 units
Market Position: Chery’s sales continued to grow in 2024, with standout models such as the Tiggo 8 and Arrizo 5. Chery has also actively entered the EV market with models like the Arrizo 5e, while accelerating its global expansion, particularly in the Middle East and Latin America.
- Top Models:
- Tiggo 8: As Chery’s flagship SUV, the Tiggo 8 is popular for its off-road capabilities and multi-functionality, appealing to family users.
- Arrizo 5: This compact sedan is recognized for its affordability and functionality.
6.Toyota
Total Sales: 645,000 units
Market Position: Toyota holds the leading position among foreign brands, leveraging its reputation for economy and reliability. In 2024, Toyota introduced several plug-in hybrid models and announced increased investment in battery development to meet China’s growing EV demand.
- Top Models:
- Corolla: A classic model, Corolla maintains high sales in China due to its fuel efficiency and dependability.
- Levin: With its youthful design and fuel economy, Levin is popular among young buyers.
7.Volkswagen
Total Sales: 620,000 units
Market Position: Volkswagen faces challenges as domestic brands rise, yet its Lavida and Tiguan series help maintain its market share. Volkswagen is accelerating its EV strategy, especially with the ID series, to remain competitive.
- Top Models:
- Lavida: Widely popular in China, Lavida is one of Volkswagen’s key models.
- Tiguan: This premium SUV appeals to mid-to-high-end SUV consumers with its reliable performance.
8.Li Auto
Total Sales: Approximately 500,000 units
Market Position: Li Auto continues to focus on the high-end range-extended EV market, with its popular models like Li L9 and ONE attracting families. In 2024, Li Auto increased R&D in range-extended technology and plans to launch pure electric models to diversify its product line.
- Top Models:
- Li L9: This range-extended SUV offers luxury features and long-range capacity.
- Li ONE: Known for its spaciousness and impressive range, the Li ONE is popular among families.
9.Tesla
Total Sales: Approximately 426,000 units
Market Position: Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3 continue to be best-sellers in China’s high-end EV market, thanks to their smart technology and range. In 2024, Tesla optimized production efficiency at its Shanghai Gigafactory, enhancing delivery capacity.
- Top Models:
- Model Y: Known for its range and smart features, Model Y remains a popular electric SUV in China.
- Model 3: Tesla’s entry-level model attracts consumers with its value and performance.
10.Great Wall Motors
Total Sales: Approximately 400,000 units
Market Position: Great Wall Motors focuses on SUVs and off-road vehicles, meeting various consumer needs with models like the Haval H6 and Tank 300. In 2024, Great Wall accelerated its EV and smart technology development, particularly through its premium brand “Dragon.”
- Top Models:
- Haval H6: Highly competitive in the compact SUV segment, known for practicality and value.
- Tank 300: A premium off-road model, Tank 300 is popular among adventure enthusiasts.
Top-Selling Models in China in 2024
ChinaCarHub.com
| Rank | Brand | Model | Sale |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BYD | Song Plus | 460,000 |
| Dolphin | 300,000 | ||
| 2 | Wuling | Hongguang MINI EV | 300,000 |
| Wuling EV | 50,000 | ||
| 3 | Geely | Boyue L | 200,000 |
| Geometry E | 150,000 | ||
| 4 | Changan | UNI-V | 150,000 |
| CS75 PLUS | 180,000 | ||
| 5 | Chery | Tiggo 8 | 200,000 |
| QQ Ice Cream | 130,000 | ||
| 6 | Tesla | Model 3 | 200,000 |
| Model Y | 250,000 | ||
| 7 | GAC Aion | AION S | 150,000 |
| AION Y | 120,000 | ||
| 8 | Neta | Neta U | 130,000 |
| Neta S | 100,000 | ||
| 9 | Li Auto | Li L7 | 170,000 |
| Li L8 | 150,000 | ||
| 10 | XPeng | G6 | 100,000 |
| P7i | 80,000 |
Conclusion
The 2024 Chinese automotive market shows a clear transition from traditional fuel vehicles to new energy and intelligent vehicles, driven by technical innovation and the growing influence of domestic brands. BYD leads with its extensive electric lineup, while brands like Geely, Changan, and Wuling are diversifying their offerings to meet a wide range of consumer needs. Foreign brands face increased competition, a trend expected to continue as Chinese automakers push forward with innovation. In the near future, Chinese brands are likely to not only solidify their domestic presence but also expand their success on the global stage.
