Overview
- Late May 2026 industry data show China accounts for roughly 60% of global EV sales and Chinese firms make more than 80% of batteries, giving them a cost and supply advantage in world markets.
- BYD, which entered Argentina in 2025, has rapidly become a top seller there and helped trigger a sharp uptake of Chinese brands in cities such as Mendoza, where dealers report rising monthly sales.
- In regions with limited public chargers consumers prefer plug‑in hybrids because they allow electric city driving and petrol range for long trips, a factor that has boosted demand for Chinese models.
- Independent evaluations and rankings have improved Chinese credibility: CESVI Argentina named the BYD Dolphin Mini its 2025 Auto de Oro for safety and CAM ranked BYD the most innovative EV maker, overtaking Tesla in volume.
- Automakers and governments are responding: Chinese firms are localizing assembly in Spain to avoid EU tariffs and legacy makers are deepening China ties and shifting product and production strategies to contain costs, a move that could reshape jobs, prices and supply chains in Europe and Latin America.