Chinese passenger vehicle sales in Europe surpassed those of Japanese automakers for the first time in May, according to the latest data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA). The figures show that five Chinese automakers sold 138,400 vehicles across 31 European countries, a 65 percent year-on-year increase, while six Japanese automakers sold 130,400 vehicles, down 3 percent from a year earlier.
According to Nikkei, Japanese automakers continue to enjoy a strong reputation for fuel-efficient hybrid vehicles but have struggled to benefit from Europe’s electric vehicle (EV) incentive policies due to their relatively limited EV product lineups. The report cited Beatrix Keim, Managing Director of Germany’s Center of Automotive Research, as saying that European consumers generally do not consider Japanese brands when purchasing electric vehicles.
The report said Japanese automakers’ presence in the European market continues to diminish, while Chinese brands are steadily expanding their market share and influence, supported by strong growth in demand for electric vehicles.
Source: Xinhua, July 3, 2026
https://www.news.cn/world/20260703/5a0d25bcce094228abf73f3acc5eb108/c.html