China EV Market 2025: Sales Surpass 15 Million Units, New Energy Penetration Reaches 45%

China's electric vehicle market continued its rapid growth in 2025, with cumulative sales of new energy vehicles (NEVs) reaching 15.2 million units by the end of November, a year-on-year increase of 28%. The penetration rate of NEVs in the passenger car market reached 45%, up from 36% in 2024.

Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for 72% of total NEV sales, while plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) made up the remaining 28%. BYD maintained its leading position with a 35% market share, followed by Tesla (12%), SAIC-GM-Wuling (8%), and Li Auto (7%).

Policy support remains a key driver, with the Chinese government extending NEV purchase tax exemptions until 2027 and introducing new subsidies for high-end intelligent electric vehicles. Charging infrastructure has also expanded rapidly, with over 8 million public charging piles nationwide by the end of 2025.

Looking ahead to 2026, industry experts predict NEV penetration will exceed 50%, driven by technological advancements in batteries, autonomous driving, and the launch of more affordable models targeting rural markets.