BYD Dominates China’s Electric Vehicle Market as 2025 Half-Year Sales Reveal Intense Competition

China’s electric vehicle (EV) sector witnessed fierce rivalry in the first half of 2025, with major automakers posting impressive sales figures. BYD emerged as the undisputed leader, crushing competitors with overwhelming volume. This analysis unpacks the key players and surprising shifts shaping the world’s largest new energy car market.

Market Overview:
The battle for EV supremacy intensified dramatically between January and June 2025. BYD solidified its dominance with a staggering 2,145,954 units sold—an astounding 33% year-over-year surge. This commanding performance left rivals scrambling for position. Geely Auto secured second place with 725,151 battery-powered automobiles delivered, marking explosive 126% growth. Traditional giants like SAIC Motor and Chery also accelerated their electrification push, reporting robust gains in new energy car sales. The sheer scale of China’s automobile electrification continues to reshape global industry dynamics.

New Energy Car Frontrunners:
Among emerging players, Harmony Intelligence and Leapmotor stole the spotlight. Harmony Intelligence smashed records with 52,747 June deliveries (+18.7% MoM), claiming the monthly "new automaker" crown. Leapmotor maintained its H1 leadership among startups, delivering 48,006 units in June (+138% YoY) and 221,664 vehicles year-to-date. Their success underscores how nimble EV specialists are challenging established automobile manufacturers with innovative tech and aggressive pricing.

Detailed Automaker Performance:

• BYD: June sales hit 382,585 units (+12% YoY), including 377,628 passenger cars. Its relentless expansion reflects deep consumer trust in the brand’s battery car ecosystem.

• Geely: Sold 122,367 EVs in June (+86% YoY), with electrified models now comprising over half its monthly car sales.

• SAIC: EV deliveries reached 120,696 units in June (+29% YoY), contributing significantly to its 646,322 H1 new energy car total.

• Chery: Reported 71,600 EV sales in June (+60% YoY), showcasing rapid electrification progress.

• Great Wall Motor: Sold 36,405 EVs in June (+39% YoY), proving traditional SUV specialists can pivot toward electric vehicle tech.