The Chinese auto industry is rapidly evolving. Modern cars from the PRC are not only budget solutions, but also the embodiment of advanced technologies, innovative design and European engineering. Progress is especially noticeable in the electric vehicle segment. Global auto giants such as Volkswagen, Tesla, Toyota and Ford are actively developing partnership projects and their own production in China.
How many Chinese cars arrive in Ukraine?
The Institute for Car Market Research analyzed the first registrations of new Chinese-made passenger cars in Ukraine. It is important to understand that this will not only include local brands like BYD or Zeekr, but all cars that were made in China — even if they have the Audi or BMW logo. Thus, analysts focused exclusively on cars marked “Made in China,” regardless of the brand. How many of them arrived last month, and in previous ones?
In August, among the 6,787 new imported passenger cars that were first registered in Ukraine, 1,809 were manufactured at Chinese enterprises. That is more than a quarter of the market — 26.7%, and according to the results of observations from August 2024, this is the highest share (as well as the number). In July, it was 24.5%, in June — 19.6%, and the further we move from the current date, the smaller this value will be. After all, this dynamics is visible in the diagram — the share is depicted by narrow bars.
Chinese cars and motors: electricity prevails
Among new passenger cars manufactured in China and registered in the mentioned period, only 7.6% had gasoline engines, 3% had hybrid power plants, and the rest — a significant share of 89.4% — were electric vehicles.
Made in China in Ukraine — brands and models
Among the leaders in the number of first registrations in August, four brands stand out, with over a hundred cars sold.
BYD (823 units) is the undisputed leader, consolidating its status every month. This company is the flagship of the Chinese industry, known primarily for its own electric cars and hybrids. BYD develops and manufactures cars exclusively at its own facilities in China.
Honda (327 units) is a Japanese brand that produces cars in China for the domestic market and for export. Honda collaborates with local companies through joint ventures, such as Dongfeng Honda and GAC Honda. This strategy allows them to adapt cars to regional needs and reduce production costs.
Zeekr (193 units) is a premium electric vehicle brand owned by Chinese giant Geely Holding Group. Zeekr is an example of how local manufacturers create technologically advanced and competitive products aimed at the global market, including Europe and Ukraine.
Audi (120 units) is the German premium brand, ranked fourth in this ranking. Most Audi models produced in China are manufactured at the plants of the FAW-Volkswagen Audi joint venture. This strategy allows the company to meet demand in Asian markets, as well as export individual models, which is a result of the deep integration of global automakers into the Chinese economy.
The above list shows a mixed picture: both cars from purely Chinese companies (BYD, Zeekr) and models from world-famous brands (Honda, Audi) assembled in joint ventures in China enter the market. This confirms that production "made in China" has become a global phenomenon, covering different market segments.
Analysis of August registrations shows that Ukrainian buyers choose cars "made in China" not only because of price, but also due to their technology, design and practicality. Each of the leading cars has its own strengths that attract different groups of consumers.
BYD Song Plus (386 units) is the undisputed leader, cementing BYDʼs status as a leading player. This car is chosen for its optimal balance of range, modern design and competitive price. It is a reliable and practical car for everyday use. Battery 87 kWh, price from $28,000 (hereinafter for cars in stock).
Honda e:NS1 (202 units) — this electric crossover is the choice for those looking for proven quality. The key here is the familiar Japanese brand Honda, which guarantees reliability combined with the advantages of a modern electric car. This is a kind of compromise between tradition and innovation. Battery 53 kWh, from $17,200.
BYD Sea Lion 07 (153 units) is another BYD model in the top. Its popularity confirms that buyers appreciate the brandʼs engineering and technological solutions. The updated Sea Lion has a bold design, high build quality and advanced systems that compete with leading global manufacturers. Battery 81 kWh, from $32,500.
Audi Q4 e-tron (98 units) — this German premium electric car is chosen for its status and design. Buyers prefer the prestige of the Audi brand and its engineering solutions. At the same time, manufacturing in China makes this model more accessible on the market, which allows you to get the desired quality and high technology at a better price. Battery 85 kWh, from $33,600.
Zeekr 7X (93 units) — this model is designed for buyers looking for something new and exclusive. Zeekr is a premium brand that offers futuristic design, the latest technologies and innovative solutions that make the car stand out on the road. This is the choice for those who want to be ahead and are not afraid to experiment. 75 kWh battery, from $41,300.
This list shows that the Ukrainian market of "Chinese" cars is very diverse. Today, the buyer has the opportunity to find both an economical and reliable electric car and a premium, technologically advanced crossover that fully meets his needs and expectations. And at the same time, there is also the option of choosing an emblem on the hood — either from a local factory or from a well-known European, American or Japanese brand.
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