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Chinese automakers outsell Renault and Audi in Europe on plug-in hybrid surge

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Chinese carmakers outpaced Renault and Audi in European sales in August, driven by soaring demand for plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), according to new data from JATO Dynamics.

Chinese brands, including BYD, Jaecoo (a Chery brand), and MG (owned by SAIC), placed models in Europe’s top-ten PHEV sellers, with the BYD Seal U, Jaecoo J7, and MG HS leading the charge.

By the numbers:

  • Chinese brands’ market share: 5.5% in August, with 43,500 sales (+121% year-on-year).

  • Audi sales: 41,300

  • Renault sales: 37,800

  • PHEV sales in Europe (28 countries): nearly 84,000 units, up 59% year-on-year.

  • Chinese PHEV sales: 11,000 units, up 14-fold.

  • BEV sales overall: up 27%, beating overall market growth of 5%.

Tesla’s Model Y remained Europe’s top battery-electric vehicle (BEV), though sales fell 37% from August 2024 despite rising BEV demand overall.

Why it matters:

Chinese automakers are using PHEVs as a stepping stone into the European market, where they are seen as a practical compromise between combustion and fully electric vehicles. With EU tariffs looming on Chinese-made EVs, carmakers like BYD are preparing to localize European production by 2028, reducing tariff risks and strengthening competitiveness.

Analyst view:

“There was strong demand for BEVs in August, however a 27% increase is less significant than it looks when you consider how widely they are being promoted,” said JATO’s Felipe Munoz, noting that growth is moderating despite heavy industry backing.

The surge in Chinese sales reflects how rapidly they are reshaping Europe’s auto market, challenging established brands with aggressive pricing, hybrid offerings, and plans for local expansion.