BYD, Xpeng, lead Chinese car brands taking over the global auto market in 2026

The global automotive landscape is shifting, and Chinese brands are driving the charge. In 2025, BYD delivered nearly 4.6 million vehicles, making it the top Chinese brand by global sales. However, a slump in plug-in hybrid sales, which fell nearly 30% in the last four months, prevented BYD from reaching its ambitious target.

Meanwhile, Xpeng emerged as the fastest-growing automaker in the world, posting 130% growth and selling 430,000 vehicles. If this trajectory continues, Xpeng could rival global EV leaders by 2026. Close behind is Jili, whose global deliveries, including Volvo and Polestar, reached 4.1 million, representing 80% year-on-year growth.

Leap Motor’s Phenomenal Rise

Leap Motor doubled its deliveries to 596,000 vehicles, proving the appetite for new energy vehicles in China is far from saturated. Brands like Neo and Zika ended the year strong, with Neo delivering 326,000 vehicles and Zeekr bouncing back with 224,000, thanks to its technologically advanced Zeekr 001, boasting 900 horsepower and ultra-fast 1,200 kW charging.

Traditional Makers Struggle to Keep Up

Not all Chinese brands enjoyed smooth sailing. Great Wall Motors failed to meet its target of 4 million, largely due to its reliance on internal combustion vehicles. As global EV adoption accelerates, traditional strategies may no longer suffice.

The Road Ahead

For investors and automotive enthusiasts, 2025 was a preview of China’s dominance in EVs and plug-in hybrids. With Xpeng, Leap Motor, and Jili challenging giants, the next few years could reshape the global car market.

Read more on Global EV sales slow to 21-month low as China stalls, US incentives end