3 6 Ke·2026-01-04 11:54Core Insights - In 2025, China's automobile exports demonstrated resilience and vitality amidst challenges, with total exports reaching 7.33 million units from January to November, a year-on-year increase of 25%, and an expectation to exceed 8 million units for the entire year [1] Group 1: Market Dynamics - The Russian market, previously the largest for Chinese automobile exports, saw a dramatic decline, with exports dropping to 513,000 units from January to November 2025, a 50% year-on-year decrease, causing it to fall to the second position [2][3] - In contrast, the European market experienced significant growth, with Chinese brand car sales in Europe reaching 78,358 units in November 2025, a 108% increase year-on-year, resulting in a market share of 7.4% [3] - Mexico emerged as the largest single market for Chinese automobile exports, with 573,500 units exported, while the UAE ranked third with 465,500 units [4] Group 2: Structural Changes in Exports - The export structure is shifting, with a notable increase in the export of new energy vehicles (NEVs), which reached 3.01 million units from January to November 2025, a 62% increase year-on-year, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) accounting for 13% of total exports, up 8 percentage points [6] - The growth of PHEVs is attributed to their suitability for diverse markets, particularly in regions where charging infrastructure is still developing [6] Group 3: Localization and Ecosystem Development - Chinese automakers are transitioning from merely exporting vehicles to establishing local manufacturing and supply chains, with companies like BYD investing in local production facilities in Europe and Southeast Asia [9][10] - The number of Chinese automotive parts companies in Thailand has surged from approximately 48 in 2017 to 165 by March 2025, indicating a growing industrial cluster [9] Group 4: Challenges Ahead - Despite strong export figures, Chinese automakers face significant challenges in brand recognition and service networks in established markets like Europe, where consumer preference remains heavily skewed towards local brands [11][12] - In Southeast Asia, entrenched Japanese brands dominate the market, making it difficult for Chinese brands to gain a foothold despite rapid growth in electric vehicle sales [12][14] - The reliance on imported components for local production in markets like Thailand poses risks to customer satisfaction and operational efficiency [14]