Chinese automakers captured the biggest share of Europe’s electric-vehicle market in nine months, regaining ground lost after the European Union imposed tariffs last year.
Manufacturers led by by BYD grabbed 8.9% of the region’s EV market in April, the most since July, according to researcher Dataforce. Chinese hybrid and combustion models also gained traction.
The latest figures underline the potent and evolving challenge Chinese manufacturers pose to European rivals. While EU duties that took effect in November initially halted Chinese EV gains, the past two months show renewed momentum. BYD, MG and others have also ramped up sales of more-conventionally powered models, adding to the pressure.
“The Chinese brands did successfully adapt to the new market surroundings,” said Julian Litzinger, a Dataforce analyst. A big upswing in Chinese hybrid sales “boosts their performance in Europe overall.”
Chinese brands accounted for 7.6% of hybrid car sales across Europe last month, Dataforce said, up from less than 1% a year earlier.
