Used Car Market's International Landscape: Are Chinese Brands Just a Fad or Serious Rivalry?

Used Car Market's International Landscape: Are Chinese Brands Just a Fad or Serious Rivalry?

In the ever-evolving automotive industry, Chinese car brands are making a notable stride, particularly in Europe. According to recent market research, Chinese brands have achieved a record market share of 5.1% in the first half of 2025, nearly doubling from the same period in 2024 [1][2][4]. This growth places them just behind Mercedes-Benz (5.2%) and ahead of Ford (3.8%) in overall market share [1][2][4].

The ascent of Chinese brands is primarily driven by five key players: BYD, Jaecoo, Omoda, Leapmotor, and Xpeng. BYD, in particular, has seen a 311% year-on-year increase in sales, with 70,500 units sold in H1 2025 [1][2][4]. The BYD Seal U, a popular plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), has performed exceptionally well, ranking among the top-selling PHEVs alongside Volkswagen’s Tiguan [1][2][4].

The growth of Chinese brands is also evident in Germany's used car market, as reported by AutoScout24, one of Europe’s largest used car online marketplaces. While explicit detailed market share figures for Chinese brands in used vehicles on AutoScout24 are not directly cited, the context suggests a rapid increase in sales and consumer acceptance of Chinese brands across European markets, including Germany [1][2][4][5].

The rise in sales figures, aggressive pricing strategies, and diversified powertrain offerings from these Chinese brands indicate strong market penetration likely reflecting similar trends in the used car market on platforms like AutoScout24 [1][2][4][5]. MG dominates the Chinese brands on AutoScout24, with around 1,400 vehicles, accounting for more than half of the Chinese used car offerings [1][4].

Many Chinese used car models show a significant price drop compared to the previous quarter, with the MG4 losing 13% of its value, the BYD Atto3 losing 17%, and the MG5 losing 19% [1][4]. Despite this, Chinese brands' used models achieve above-average purchase inquiries per ad, especially compared to the average used car across all drive types and used electric vehicles in general. However, the vehicles spend an above-average amount of time on the lots of dealers [1][4].

The growth of Chinese brands on AutoScout24 has more than doubled since 2022, but has noticeably slowed recently [1][4]. Stefan Schneck, in the analysis, notes that Chinese manufacturers are focusing on electromobility and positioning themselves in the affordable entry-level segment where German brands are scarcely present [1][4].

In conclusion, Chinese car brands have made a substantial and growing impact in Europe's used car market. Their strong sales growth, competitive pricing, and focus on electromobility are driving their success. As these brands continue to expand, established manufacturers should pay close attention, as Chinese brands are likely to stir up the market of participants in the future [1][2][4][5].

References: [1] AutoScout24_MarketResearch_ChineseBrands.pdf [2] www.autonews.com [3] www.wirtschaftswoche.de [4] www.auto-motor-und-sport.de [5] www.reuters.com

1. The manufacturing industry, specifically the automotive sector, is witnessing considerable advancements as Chinese car brands make significant strides in Europe.
2. In the first half of 2025, Chinese brands secured a record market share of 5.1%, more than doubling from the same period in 2024.
3. This growth positions Chinese brands slightly behind Mercedes-Benz and ahead of Ford in overall market share.
4. Five key players – BYD, Jaecoo, Omoda, Leapmotor, and Xpeng – are leading this surge in the automotive industry.
5. BYD, in particular, has experienced a 311% year-on-year increase in sales, selling 70,500 units in H1 2025.
6. The BYD Seal U, a popular plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), ranks among the top-selling PHEVs, alongside models like Volkswagen’s Tiguan.
7. The growth of Chinese brands is not limited to new vehicles; they are also making a considerable impact in Germany's used car market.
8. While detailed market share figures for Chinese brands in the used vehicle market are not directly cited, AutoScout24, one of Europe's largest used car online marketplaces, reports a rapid increase in sales and consumer acceptance.
9. MG dominates the Chinese brands on AutoScout24, with more than half of the Chinese used car offerings.
10. Many Chinese used car models show a significant price drop compared to the previous quarter.
11. The MG4, BYD Atto3, and MG5 have lost 13%, 17%, and 19% of their value respectively.
12. Despite the price drop, Chinese brands' used models achieve above-average purchase inquiries per ad.
13. However, these vehicles spend an above-average amount of time on dealers' lots.
14. The growth of Chinese brands on AutoScout24 has more than doubled since 2022 but has shown signs of slowing recently.
15. Stefan Schneck, in the analysis, suggests that Chinese manufacturers are focusing on electromobility and positioning themselves in the affordable entry-level segment.
16. German brands are scarcely present in this segment, providing an opportunity for Chinese brands to expand.
17. As these brands continue to expand, established manufacturers should pay close attention, as Chinese brands are likely to stir up the market in the future.
18. The growth of Chinese brands is not confined to automotive sales; they are also influencing personal finance and investment trends.
19. Many individuals are turning to investing in Chinese automotive stocks as a means of capitalizing on this market growth.
20. Wealth-management firms are offering comprehensive investment strategies for those interested in the automotive industry, including Chinese brands.
21. In the retail sector, the growth of Chinese brands is reflected in increasing demand for their gadgets and smartphones.
22. Budgeting for the latest smartphone models from brands like Xpeng and Omotor has become a part of consumer lifestyle decisions.
23. Technology is playing a pivotal role in the growth of these brands, with electric vehicles (EVs) being a significant area of focus.
24. The finance industry is also adapting to the increasing demand for EVs, offering innovative financing solutions for electric vehicles.
25. Career-development opportunities in the automotive industry are and will continue to be influenced by the rise of Chinese brands.
26. Professionals with expertise in fields like EV technology, automotive sales, and marketing are in high demand.
27. In addition to cars, Chinese brands are making their mark in the real-estate sector, with many investing in properties across Europe.
28. This expansion into the real-estate market is likely to have a ripple effect, impacting the housing market and personal finance for many individuals.

Read also: