China leads the world in electric vehicle production and exports.
With China now the world’s largest producer and exporter of electric vehicles (EVs) , many new and emerging EV brands have come from the country — some well-known globally, others still growing their international presence.
In this article, we’ll explore which EV brands are Chinese , highlight their most popular models, and explain how they’re shaping the global EV market in 2025.
Why Are So Many EV Brands Coming From China?
Several key factors explain China’s dominance in the EV sector:
- ✅ Massive government support through subsidies and infrastructure.
- ✅ World-leading battery production (CATL and BYD are top suppliers).
- ✅ Strong domestic demand and competitive local markets.
- ✅ Global export ambitions as Western automakers retreat or struggle to keep up.
This environment has given rise to a number of Chinese EV brands that are now making waves internationally.
Top Chinese EV Brands
1. BYD Auto
- Headquarters: Shenzhen, China
- Focus: Full electrification – no more gasoline cars since 2022
- Popular Models: BYD Dolphin, BYD Sealion 6, BYD Han
- Global Presence: Europe, Latin America, Southeast Asia, Middle East
BYD is currently the world’s top-selling EV brand , surpassing Tesla in 2023. It also makes its own batteries (Blade Battery) and offers a full range of electric cars.
2. Geely Auto Group
- Headquarters: Hangzhou, China
- Sub-brands: Zeekr, Polestar, Farizon Auto
- Popular Models: Geely Coolray, Zeekr 001, Geely E8
- Global Presence: Russia, Europe, Middle East, Southeast Asia
Geely owns several EV-focused sub-brands and has strong ties to Volvo. Its Zeekr brand is especially gaining attention for premium electric vehicles.
3. Chery Automobile
- Headquarters: Wuhu, China
- Sub-brands: OMODA, Jaecoo
- Popular Models: Chery Tiggo 7 Pro, Chery Arrizo, OMODA C Plus
- Global Presence: Russia, Latin America, Africa, Middle East
Chery is one of China’s oldest carmakers and now a major player in EV exports. It recently launched premium sub-brands to target younger and luxury buyers.
4. Great Wall Motor Company (GWM)
- Headquarters: Baoding, China
- Sub-brands: Haval, ORA, Tank
- Popular Models: Haval Jolion, ORA Funky Cat, Tank 300 HEV
- Global Presence: Europe, Russia, Southeast Asia, Australia
Great Wall Motors focuses heavily on both gasoline-hybrid and all-electric models . Its ORA brand specializes in stylish, compact electric cars.
5. SAIC Motor (MG & LDV)
- Headquarters: Shanghai, China
- Sub-brands: MG, Maxus (LDV)
- Popular Models: MG 4, MG ZS EV, Maxus MIFA 9
- Global Presence: UK, India, Europe, Australia
Through its MG brand , SAIC has become one of the most successful Chinese exporters in Europe. The MG 4 is especially popular as an affordable, long-range EV.
6. NIO
- Headquarters: Shanghai, China
- Focus: Premium electric SUVs and sedans
- Popular Models: NIO ET5, NIO ES7, NIO ET7
- Global Presence: Europe, Middle East
NIO targets luxury buyers with high-end interiors, autonomous driving tech, and battery-swapping stations for fast recharging.
7. Xpeng (XPeng Motors)
- Headquarters: Guangzhou, China
- Focus: Smart EVs with Level 2+ autonomy
- Popular Models: Xpeng P7 (electric sedan), Xpeng G9 (electric SUV)
- Global Presence: Europe, Middle East
Xpeng emphasizes AI-powered driving systems and over-the-air updates, competing directly with Tesla in software-driven features.
8. Li Auto / Li Auto Inc. (Li Auto, Li L series)
- Headquarters: Beijing, China
- Focus: Range-extended electric SUVs (EREVs)
- Popular Models: Li L9, Li L8, Li L7
- Global Presence: Domestic focus, potential future expansion
Li Auto stands out by focusing on range-extended EVs , ideal for families who want electric driving without charging anxiety.
Other Notable Chinese EV Brands
| Aiways | Exporting to Europe; U5 electric SUV |
| Leapmotor | Stylish EVs with good performance; expanding to Europe |
| Weltmeister (WM Motor) | Domestic brand with strong tech focus |
| Qiantu Motor | High-performance electric sports car (K50) |
How Chinese EV Brands Are Expanding Globally
| 🚛 Export Growth | Shipping thousands of units monthly to Russia, Europe, and Latin America |
| 🏭 Local Assembly | Opening factories in Thailand, Algeria, Brazil, and Eastern Europe |
| ⚡ Charging Infrastructure | Investing in fast-charging networks and battery swap stations |
| 🧠 Software Innovation | Competing with Tesla in smart driving features and OTA updates |
Final Thoughts
There are many Chinese EV brands today, and they’re not just budget options — they’re serious competitors to global automakers. From BYD’s mass-market leadership to Zeekr’s premium appeal , and from NIO’s luxury positioning to SAIC’s global reach , these brands are reshaping the EV landscape.
If you’re shopping for an electric car in Europe, Russia, Southeast Asia, or beyond , don’t overlook what Chinese brands have to offer — you might be surprised at the value, innovation, and quality they bring to the table.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Which EV brands are Chinese?
A: Top Chinese EV brands include BYD, Geely (and Zeekr), Chery, Great Wall Motors (Haval, ORA), SAIC (MG), NIO, Xpeng, and Li Auto .
Q: Are Chinese EVs reliable?
A: Yes, modern Chinese EVs from top brands are highly reliable and often match or exceed international standards.
Q: Do Chinese EVs sell outside China?
A: Yes, many Chinese EV brands are actively exporting to Europe, Russia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America .
Q: Are Chinese EVs cheaper than Western ones?
A: Generally yes — Chinese EVs offer similar or better specs at more affordable prices , thanks to lower manufacturing costs and government support.