Chinese automakers double market share in Europe in May

Chinese automakers more than doubled their share of the European car market in May 2025, despite new tariffs on electric vehicles, according to the latest data from JATO Dynamics.

In total, 65,808 new vehicles from Chinese brands were registered across 28 European markets last month, up 111% year-on-year. Their market share rose from 2.9% in May 2024 to 5.9% this year.

The overall European new car market grew moderately, with registrations up 2.5% year-on-year to 1.1 million units. Cumulative sales for the year now stand at 5.54 million, a 0.7% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

JATO analyst Felipe Munoz attributed the surge in Chinese sales to strategic product offerings.

“Their momentum is partly due to their decision to push alternative powertrains, such as plug-in hybrids and full hybrids, to the region.”

MG continued its strong performance, registering 29,400 units in May — a 30% increase — and overtook Fiat in year-to-date sales. BYD’s growth was even steeper, with a 397% year-on-year increase, nearly matching Tesla’s monthly total. Other Chinese newcomers also made gains: Jaecoo outpaced Honda, while Omoda outsold Mitsubishi.

The rise of Chinese brands came amid varied results for established European players. Volkswagen Group, Renault Group, and BMW Group posted growth of 3.3%, 4.6%, and 6.3%, respectively. Skoda climbed to second in the monthly brand rankings, and Cupra overtook Seat in year-to-date figures with a 30% boost in registrations.

At the model level, the Renault Clio led monthly sales with a 12% increase. The Dacia Sandero, despite a 10% drop, remained strong in second and continues to top year-to-date rankings. Other high performers included the VW Tiguan, Dacia Duster, and MG ZS.

Among newer entrants, the Skoda Elroq led with 9,200 units sold in May, followed by the Jaecoo 7, BYD Seal U, and Renault Symbioz.

Some brands struggled: Maserati, Lotus, and Abarth saw steep declines, while Jaguar registered only 86 units in May, fewer than INEOS.

The latest figures highlight the growing competitiveness of Chinese manufacturers in Europe, as well as a shifting dynamic in the region’s automotive market driven by electrification and new brand entries.