December Auto Sales: New Energy Vehicle Volumes Jump 26% Year-on-Year

The automotive sector wrapped up 2024 with robust sales figures, as listed automakers reported their December and full-year performance. Data compiled from major A and H-share companies reveals a notable uptick in vehicle sales, driven largely by the expanding adoption of new energy cars. In December alone, 22 listed automakers sold approximately 2.44 million vehicles, marking a 9.27% increase compared to the same period last year. Throughout 2024, cumulative sales reached 21.6 million units, reflecting a steady growth trajectory. Leading the pack were BYD, SAIC Motor, and Changan Automobile in annual sales volume, while companies like Seres and Zhongtong Bus recorded growth rates exceeding 50%. A key highlight was the surge in electric vehicle sales, which climbed 26.31% year-on-year in December, underscoring a shifting consumer preference toward sustainable transportation options.

Overall Vehicle Sales Trends
The automobile industry demonstrated resilience in December, with total sales of 2.44 million units across the 22 listed companies. This represents a 9.27% rise from the previous year and a 4.36% increase month-over-month, signaling sustained demand in the market. BYD emerged as a standout performer, selling 514,800 vehicles in December—a 50.95% year-on-year jump—and achieving annual sales of 4.27 million units. SAIC Motor and GAC Group followed with 483,000 and 283,200 units sold in December, respectively. However, not all manufacturers shared in the success; Haima Automobile, for instance, saw a 43.73% decline in monthly sales, with MPV models experiencing a steep drop of over 70%. On the whole, the car market maintained momentum through the latter half of 2024, supported by innovations in design and technology across various models.

New Energy Vehicle Sales Surge
A closer look at the new energy car segment reveals even more dynamic growth. Sixteen listed automakers disclosed figures for December, collectively selling about 1.23 million units of electric vehicles and other new energy cars—a 26.31% year-on-year increase. For the full year, these companies sold 9.86 million new energy vehicles, up 32.62% from 2023. Geely Auto stood out with a 93.09% spike in December sales of new energy cars, including 77,000 pure battery car units and 34,200 plug-in hybrid models. Similarly, GAC Group reported 77,300 new energy car sales in December, though its annual figures dipped by 17.26%, partly due to slower performance from its subsidiary, GAC Aion. This upward trend in the electric vehicle market highlights the growing consumer embrace of eco-friendly automobiles, with penetration rates hovering around 52% in recent months.

Key Models: Dimensions and Configurations
Delving into specific models, the rise of the electric vehicle is accompanied by advancements in size and features. For example, BYD’s all-electric sedan boasts exterior dimensions of 4,980 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, and 1,490 mm in height, providing a spacious interior with legroom of over 1,000 mm for rear passengers. Its configuration includes a high-capacity battery pack offering up to 600 km of range, paired with adaptive cruise control and a panoramic sunroof—attributes that make this car a top choice in the new energy car segment. Similarly, Geely’ flagship battery car model features an overall length of 4,710 mm and a wheelbase of 2,750 mm, ensuring ample cabin space for five adults. Inside, it offers a minimalist dashboard with a 15-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and premium upholstery, emphasizing both comfort and innovation in modern automobile design. Another notable new energy car, the Seres SUV, measures 4,820 mm long and 1,925 mm wide, with a roomy interior that includes three-zone climate control and foldable rear seats for added versatility. These configurations not only enhance the driving experience but also align with the practical needs of today’s car buyers.