Sales of Chinese-made hybrid cars have risen dramatically across the European Union, raising concerns about the competitiveness of Europe’s automotive industry. Only 659 Chinese full hybrids were sold in the bloc in 2022. During the first seven months of 2026, that figure reached 160,662.
Plug-in hybrid imports have grown strongly too. Sales increased from 56,706 vehicles in 2022 to 217,764 between January and July this year. These models can recharge through both their combustion engine and an external electricity source.
The increase followed the EU’s introduction of anti-subsidy tariffs on Chinese battery-electric vehicles in 2024. European policymakers are now concerned that Chinese manufacturers are gaining market share through hybrids, which were not covered in the same way. Brussels has asked China to reduce hybrid exports voluntarily or risk measures such as quotas, minimum prices or tariffs.
Hybrid cars now represent almost 37% of the EU market, while electric vehicles account for just over 21%. Chinese manufacturers are recording rapid growth. BYD’s sales rose by 163% year on year to 177,000 vehicles, while Geely sold 205,000 during the first eight months. Both moved ahead of Tesla, which sold 142,000 cars across the bloc in the first seven months.
European manufacturers nevertheless remain dominant. Volkswagen Group sold two million vehicles during the first eight months. The changing market, however, is increasing pressure on Brussels to balance consumer choice with fair competition and the protection of European manufacturing.
