China’s passenger car market in July 2026 saw New Energy Vehicles dominate the top ten sales chart, with only one internal combustion engine model making the list. According to the latest data from the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA), Geely’s Xingyuan led the rankings, while Leapmotor and Tesla rounded out the top three.
New Energy Vehicles Dominate July Sales
The July 2026 sales leaderboard in China was overwhelmingly led by New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), with nine out of the top ten models being either battery electric or hybrid vehicles. The Geely Geome Xingyuan (also known as Geely E2/EX2) secured the top spot with 32,306 units sold.
Leapmotor’s A10 (B03X) followed closely in second place, recording 26,424 units. Tesla’s Model Y took third, with 25,158 units sold. Notably, the Model Y remains the most expensive vehicle in the top ten, with an official guide price ranging from $39,006 (~AUD 55,259) to $46,408 (~AUD 65,745).
Other Top Performers in July
Xiaomi’s SU7 ranked fourth with 21,044 units sold, contributing to Xiaomi’s total July sales of over 30,000 vehicles. Fang Cheng Bao’s Ti 7 (FCB Ti 7) was fifth, selling 20,320 units and accounting for nearly half of the brand’s global sales for the month.
The BYD Yuan Up (Atto 2) came in sixth with 20,275 units, while the Changan Qiyuan (Nevo) Q05 was seventh at 18,871 units. Li Auto’s i6 and BYD’s Sealion 06 rounded out the eighth and ninth spots with 15,420 and 15,395 units sold, respectively. The BYD Sealion 06 and Fang Cheng Bao Ti 7 were the only two hybrid-powered vehicles in the top ten.
Toyota’s Corolla Cross was the sole internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle to make the list, ranking tenth with 14,510 units sold.
Competitor Comparison
The Geely Geome Xingyuan continues to set the pace among battery electric vehicles, outpacing both NEV and ICE competitors. Leapmotor’s A10 has shown rapid sales growth, positioning itself as a strong rival to other cost-effective NEVs. Tesla’s Model Y, while commanding a higher price point between $39,006 (~AUD 55,259) and $46,408 (~AUD 65,745), maintains a strong brand presence and remains the most expensive model in the July top ten.
These three models highlight the competitive landscape in China’s NEV market, where affordability, technology, and brand recognition all play significant roles.
Historical Context
China’s automotive market has seen robust growth, with global vehicle sales reaching 34.35 million units in 2025, up 9% year-on-year. The July 2026 results reflect a continued upward trend, with a 17% year-on-year increase in sales.
China accounted for 41% of the world’s automobile sales in November 2024, underscoring the country’s central role in the global automotive industry.
Why this matters
The dominance of NEVs in China’s July sales chart signals a major shift in consumer preferences and industry direction. With only one ICE model in the top ten, the data highlights how quickly electrification is reshaping the world’s largest car market.
These trends are significant for automakers and buyers alike, as they reflect both the rapid adoption of electric vehicles and the increasing competitiveness of domestic Chinese brands.
What this means for buyers
Buyers in China now have a wide range of NEVs to choose from, with strong offerings across multiple price points and technologies. Those considering a new vehicle purchase should pay close attention to the rapid advancements and competitive pricing among domestic brands.
With NEVs dominating the market, consumers can expect continued improvements in range, features, and value, while traditional ICE options are becoming less prominent.
Related coverage from The Electric Viking
For more on China’s NEV market and top-selling models, see BYD crushes blogger in Court: second-instance ruling forces apology after 293,000 USD verdict and Sunday China Drive | Volvo XC70 PHEV road‑tested in China, global model bound for 70+ markets.
Key Specs
- Top-Selling Model: Geely Geome Xingyuan (Geely E2/EX2)
- Units Sold (July 2026): 32,306
- Second Place: Leapmotor A10 (B03X) – 26,424 units
- Third Place: Tesla Model Y – 25,158 units
- Tesla Model Y Price Range: $39,006 (~AUD 55,259) to $46,408 (~AUD 65,745)
- Only ICE Model in Top 10: Toyota Corolla Cross – 14,510 units
- China’s Share of Global Sales (Nov 2024): 41%
- Year-on-Year Sales Growth: 17%
