- Chinese EVs grab 11% of Europe’s EV market share in June as buyers rush to beat new tariffs.
- SAIC, owner of MG, sold nearly 13,400 cars, surpassing BYD’s 4,000, with 40% of imports dealer-registered.
State-owned SAIC, which owns British brand MG, saw the biggest sales spike in June
Chinese carmakers grabbed a record 11% of the European EV market in June, as buyers scrambled to beat new EU tariffs on imported EVs. The numbers, which include the UK, reveal that around 23,000 battery electric vehicles were registered last month – a 72% surge from May – as consumers raced to avoid price hikes.
Data highlights that Chinese state-owned SAIC, parent company of British brand MG, led the sales surge. However, 40% of these imports were registered by dealers, signalling a frantic pre-tariff buying spree.
The electric carmaker sold nearly 13,400 cars in June, outpacing rival BYD, which sold just under 4,000 vehicles, including its Dolphin and Seal brands.
SAIC faces a steep 38% EU tariff, while BYD cars are hit with a 17% levy since July 5. This move is part of the EU’s effort to level the playing field with its own automakers, including BMW, Audi, and Stellantis’ Fiat and Renault.
The top markets for Chinese EVs in Europe are Germany, the UK, and France, with Norway, Belgium, and Italy also notable. Of the 208,872 EVs sold in Europe in June, over 43,400 were in Germany – a decline of 18% from the previous month.
In the UK, sales climbed 7.4% to 34,000, while in France, they fell 10% to just under 30,000.
As tariffs reshape the landscape, Chinese EVs are poised to continue their strong performance in Europe. With regulatory adjustments and market dynamics in play, the coming months will be crucial in determining if Chinese brands can maintain their momentum and further impact Europe’s automotive sector.
