Sales of Chinese-made hybrid vehicles have escalated dramatically in the European Union, sparking concern among European officials over the competitive threat to local car manufacturers. According to recent data, the sales of fully hybrid vehicles originating from China surged from a mere 659 units in 2022 to 160,662 in the first seven months of 2026. Similarly, plug-in hybrids saw a substantial increase from 56,706 units to 217,764 during the same timeframe.
The surge follows the European Union’s implementation of anti-subsidy tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles in 2024, which notably excluded hybrid models. This regulatory environment has facilitated the proliferation of Chinese hybrids in the European market, leading to the European Commission’s call for China to self-impose restrictions on hybrid exports to the region. Should negotiations fail, the EU may contemplate safeguard measures, including potential quotas.
Chinese automakers like BYD, Chery, and Leapmotor are rapidly gaining market share, with Geely holding the lead as the largest Chinese automotive group in Europe. BYD reported selling approximately 177,000 vehicles in the EU, showcasing significant year-on-year growth. Meanwhile, Geely achieved sales of about 205,000 vehicles in the first eight months of 2026. Despite this growth, European manufacturers continue to dominate the market in terms of overall share.
Currently, hybrid vehicles make up nearly 37% of the European car market, a notable increase compared to fully electric vehicles, which account for just over 21%. This shift is occurring as the EU grapples with a widening trade imbalance with China and strives to safeguard the competitiveness of its automotive sector.