Core Insights - Chinese automotive companies are rapidly increasing their market share in Europe, reaching a historic high of 7.4% in September 2023 [2] - The focus of Chinese car manufacturers has shifted from merely selling cars to establishing a strong presence in international markets [3] Market Entry Challenges - The initial phase of exporting vehicles involved a traditional model where Chinese manufacturers produced cars domestically and relied on foreign trade companies for overseas sales, which accounted for over 70% of exports before 2020 [7] - The introduction of a 25% anti-subsidy tax by the EU in October 2024 led to a 30% year-on-year drop in exports to Europe, highlighting the impact of trade barriers [7] - Regulatory challenges such as the R155 information security regulation and R156 battery traceability requirements have caused significant delays and financial losses for companies [7][8] - The shipping capacity of Chinese companies is limited, with only 7.6% of global roll-on/roll-off shipping capacity, leading to increased costs and delivery times [7] Evolution of Export Strategies - By 2021, the industry began transitioning to a model where key components were shipped to overseas factories for assembly, reducing transportation costs by approximately 30% [7] - However, challenges persisted, including brand perception issues and supply chain vulnerabilities exposed by geopolitical tensions [8] Systematic Approach to Global Expansion - Leading Chinese automotive companies are now forming collaborative networks that integrate vehicle manufacturing, component suppliers, and service support to enhance their global competitiveness [11] - The strategy has evolved to focus on building a comprehensive ecosystem rather than just selling products, emphasizing brand value, local production, and full-channel support [11][12] Strategic Focus on the UK Market - The UK has emerged as a strategic entry point for Chinese car manufacturers into Europe, benefiting from lower policy risks and a growing market for electric vehicles [18] - The lack of strong domestic automotive brands in the UK allows for greater acceptance of new entrants, creating a favorable environment for Chinese brands [20] Performance Metrics - In the first ten months of 2025, Geely's exports of new energy vehicles increased by 218%, with its global strategic model EX5 achieving top sales in several countries [12] - Geely's domestic market share rose from 6.3% in 2021 to 10.4%, providing a robust financial base for international expansion [21] Conclusion - The transformation of Chinese automotive companies from passive participants to proactive leaders in the global market reflects a significant shift in strategy, focusing on sustainable and profitable growth [24]