China's passenger vehicle market showed early signs of recovery from its seasonal low in August 2026. Wholesale sales rose 5.1% month on month to 2.38 million units, while production increased 5.5% to 2.37 million units. However, both remained below year-earlier levels. Demand was supported by the Chengdu Motor Show, a growing supply of new NEV models and stronger expectations of policy support.
Electrification continued to reshape the market. NEV sales increased 14.9% year on year, lifting their penetration rate to 63.8%. Chinese brands further expanded their wholesale market share to 77.5% and were the only major brand group to record year-on-year sales growth.
Exports remained another key source of momentum despite a slight monthly decline. Overseas shipments reached 890,000 units, up 67.1% year on year. BYD exported approximately 184,000 vehicles, while BYD, Geely and Leapmotor each posted triple-digit growth.
Explore the full presentation for a closer look at August's production and sales performance, NEV transition, export trends and changing competitive landscape.
