Chinese automakers overtook Japan as the world’s largest car seller by volume in 2025, selling approximately 27 million vehicles globally versus Japan’s 25 million. Around 70% of China’s sales were domestic, where electric and hybrid models comprised nearly 60% of new passenger car sales. BYD and Geely ranked among the world’s top 10 automakers, while Chery posted strong export growth. Chinese brand sales overseas surged, with Europe expected to reach 2.3 million units despite tariffs, and Africa and Latin America posting over 30% growth. Japanese automaker sales, which peaked in 2018, have declined in key markets including the U.S. and China.

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