China's New Energy Car Sales Surge in February 2025: Plug-in Hybrids and Battery Cars Dominate

As the global automobile industry accelerates toward electrification, China’s new energy car market continues to break records. February 2025 witnessed explosive growth across sedan, SUV, and pickup segments, with Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) and battery cars leading the charge. Major car dealers reported robust demand, driven by competitive pricing and government incentives. Here’s a breakdown of the top performers and trends shaping this dynamic sector.

BYD Reigns Supreme with PHEVs and Battery Cars

BYD solidified its dominance, selling 322,846 new energy cars in February—a staggering 164% year-over-year increase. The automaker’s Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle lineup, particularly under its Dynasty and Ocean series, accounted for 304,673 units, underscoring consumer preference for versatile PHEV sedans and SUVs. Meanwhile, premium brands like Denza and Fang Cheng Bao showcased strong traction, proving that car buyers increasingly prioritize advanced battery car technology alongside hybrid efficiency.

Geely Group’s Multi-Brand Strategy Pays Off

Geely Group, including Zeekr and Lynk & Co, sold 204,910 automobiles in February, with 98,433 units attributed to new energy cars. Zeekr’s luxury battery car models and Lynk & Co’s Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles attracted urban consumers seeking high-performance sedans and family-friendly SUVs. Car dealers noted that Geely’s diversified portfolio—spanning affordable PHEVs to premium battery cars—effectively captures multiple market segments.

Xiaomi’s Disruptive Entry into Battery Cars

Xiaomi’s automotive division made waves by delivering over 20,000 units of its SU7 battery car in February alone. This newcomer’s success highlights the rising appeal of tech-integrated automobiles, particularly among younger buyers. Car dealers report that Xiaomi’s competitive pricing and smart features are reshaping expectations for budget-friendly electric sedans.

Pickup Segment Gains Momentum with New Energy Models

While sedans and SUVs dominate sales, electrified pickups are emerging as a niche growth area. Brands like Great Wall Motors reported a 23% YoY increase in new energy car sales, driven partly by hybrid pickup models. Automobile analysts predict this segment will expand further as commercial users adopt eco-friendly alternatives.

Challenges and Opportunities for Car Dealers

Despite overall growth, some automakers faced headwinds. Li Auto saw a 12.2% monthly sales decline, emphasizing the need for car dealers to diversify inventory with both Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles and pure battery cars. Similarly, Aion’s 15.3% annualized sales drop through January-February underscores the importance of agility in a competitive market.