China’s automotive market continues to be dominated by new energy vehicles (NEVs), with domestic brands strengthening their lead over traditional competitors. According to cumulative retail sales data from January to May 2026, electric vehicles (EVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and extended-range EVs account for the majority of the country’s best-selling passenger cars.
The ranking below is based on retail registrations and includes both new energy and conventional fuel-powered vehicles.
Top 10 Best-Selling Passenger Vehicles in China (Jan–May 2026)
| Rank | Model | Sales (Units) | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | BYD Song Series (Pro / Plus DM-i) | 321,000 | Plug-in Hybrid SUV |
| #2 | Geely Galaxy Xingyuan | 160,800 | Battery Electric Compact Car |
| #3 | BYD Seagull | 141,800 | Battery Electric City Car |
| #4 | Xiaomi SU7 | 138,000 | Battery Electric Mid-Large Sedan |
| #5 | Tesla Model Y | 133,859 | Battery Electric Mid-Size SUV |
| #6 | Tesla Model 3 | 126,000 | Battery Electric Mid-Size Sedan |
| #7 | Li Auto L6 / i6 | 98,990 | Extended-Range Mid-Large SUV |
| #8 | BYD Dolphin | 92,600 | Battery Electric Hatchback |
| #9 | AITO M6 | 79,000 | Extended-Range Mid-Size SUV |
| #10 | Leapmotor A10 | 74,707 | Battery Electric Compact SUV |
Key Highlights
BYD Remains China’s Sales Champion
BYD continues to dominate China’s passenger vehicle market. The Song Series alone sold more than 321,000 units in the first five months of 2026, nearly doubling the sales of many competitors.
Tesla Maintains Strong Presence
Despite fierce competition from Chinese manufacturers, Tesla remains highly competitive. The Model Y and Model 3 together sold nearly 260,000 units, making Tesla the most successful foreign automaker in China.
Xiaomi Becomes a Major Automotive Player
The Xiaomi SU7 has become one of the most remarkable success stories in the automotive industry. With 138,000 units sold in just five months, Xiaomi has quickly established itself as a serious EV manufacturer.
New Energy Vehicles Continue to Lead
Nine of the top ten vehicles are fully electric, plug-in hybrid, or extended-range models, highlighting China’s rapid transition toward electrification.
Market Outlook
China remains the world’s largest EV market, and local brands such as BYD, Geely, Xiaomi, Li Auto, AITO, and Leapmotor continue to gain market share. As battery technology improves and charging infrastructure expands, the dominance of new energy vehicles is expected to continue throughout 2026.
Source: China Passenger Car Association (CPCA) and third-party retail registration statistics (January–May 2026).
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