Ultimate Guide: Sourcing Electric Vehicles from China’s Top 10 EV Manufacturers

By Sarah
 / 
April 30, 2024
 / 

People are now switching to electronic cars (EVs)! Gasoline is getting expensive nowadays. Thanks to EV car makers! They are now the solution to costly car maintenance and expenses. You don’t need to spend on gasoline. You only need to charge it to run. Can you buy China Electric Vehicles? Are they worth your money? This guide will help you learn how to source EV cars from China. We will list everything you need to know to buy a good brand.

 

1. Electric vehicles Basic

 

1) What are China’s Electric Vehicles?

China produces Electronic Vehicles. An electric vehicle (EV) runs on electricity. It does not use gasoline or diesel-fueled internal combustion engine (ICE).

What is China Electric Vehicles

China is the maker of approximately 57.4% of all EVs produced worldwide. It is the market leader for plug-in electric buses and many commercial vehicles.

It sold 500,000 electric buses and 247,500 electric commercial vehicles in 2019. While in 2021, it sold 3.34 million passenger EVs. That included 2.73 million battery-only EVs and 0.6 million plug-in hybrid EVs.

 

2) Is China exporting its electric vehicles?

China exports its EVS. China has emerged as the primary competitor in the global electric vehicle market. And, China is becoming a major exporter of automobiles.

China was second place in the world’s vehicle export rankings. It went ahead in Germany in 2022. Western companies, like Tesla, have extensive production capability in China. They make up a big share of the EVs exported globally. They take advantage of favorable industrial rules and the production of EV laws in China.

The China electric vehicle company like BYD, is now competitive globally. They can achieve advantages  that are crucial to their success. The government supports them, while they also use modern innovation.

 

3) China is the Global Leader in EV

China is the global leader in the field of electric vehicles. The following are some reasons why:

Number 1 Producer

China is the most popular country that makes the most electric cars worldwide. The manufacturers produce millions of electric vehicles yearly.  It holds a big share of the market share.

Charging Stations

China has made significant investments to build EV charging stations. They have a vast network of public EV charging stations. It encouraged the market to use EV vehicles.

Market Share

China leads the world in the EV markets. It represents more than half of the world’s sales of NEVs or what’s known as the new energy vehicles. These are the PHEVs or  plug-in hybrid electric cars. Another type is  BEVS, most commonly known as battery electric vehicles.

Global Exports

China exports many of its electric vehicles to many nations. Companies like XPeng, NIO, and BYD have increased their global reach. They are reliable producers of EVs.

Government Help and Support

The Chinese government offers significant incentives and perks for EV users. Both producers and consumers take advantage of these policies.

Technology

China is the leader in EV innovation. They create cutting-edge electric engines, intelligent functions, and battery technologies.

 

2. China’s Electric Vehicles

1) What is China’s largest EV company?

BYD is the most significant electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer in China. As of 2022, BYD is the biggest EV manufacturer, producing around 1.9 million EVs. These cars comprised roughly half battery electric vehicles (BEVs). It also includes PHEVs or the half plug-in hybrid cars.

Huawei, which is well-known for its smartphones and telecom gear, made an entry into the EV industry. Their brand, Aito, has emerged as the top-selling electric vehicle in China EV startups. China is second to none in the EV business today.

 

2) What is the Top China Electric Vehicle Company

BYD

BYD Company Limited, or BYD, is in Shenzhen, Guangdong, China. It started in February 1995 and was founded by Wang Chuanfu. BYD Auto is now the biggest producer of electric vehicles worldwide. They have over 30 industrial headquarters.

1the Top China Electric Vehicle Company BYD

BYD manufactures a variety of automobiles. They make plug-in hybrids, electric vehicles (EVs), and gasoline-powered vehicles. BYD is a pioneer in the field of rechargeable batteries. That includes bulk storage options, EV batteries, and batteries for cell phones.

SAIC

SAIC Motor Corp was founded in 1955 in Anting, Shanghai. It is the biggest of China’s “Big Four” state-owned automakers. It has built more than 30 industrial parks worldwide.

2the Top China Electric Vehicle Company SAIC

SAIC manufactures a variety of automobiles. They have EVs and conventional cars with internal combustion engines. It remained the leading domestic automaker with over 5 million units sales in 2023. They own the brands like MG, Roewe, and Maxus.

NIO

Nio is a Shanghai-based company. They make smart and high-performing electric cars. NIO provides an innovative substitute for traditional charging stations. They. have battery-swapping facilities for their vehicles. You can change car batteries right away.

3the Top China Electric Vehicle Company NIO

What makes them remarkable is they offer power solutions. They have rechargeable, interchangeable, and upgradeable batteries. They also have cloud technology. It allows its customers to receive worry-free, one-click service.

GAC

GAC Motor started in 2008 in Guangzhou, China. They specialize in Electric vehicles (EVs) and conventional internal combustion engine cars. They also make and sell car parts.

4the Top China Electric Vehicle Company GAC

GAC Motor’s range of automobiles blends quality, innovation, and sophisticated design.
Their cars have been proven to be well-built, reasonably priced, and dependable.

Li Auto Inc

Li is a Chinese producer of electric vehicles with operations in Changzhou. Their main office is in Beijing. Li Xiang established the business in 2015. Its main goal is constructing electric cars that run on range extender power.

5the Top China Electric Vehicle Company LI AUTO INC

It is a leader in marketing extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) in China. Their famous lines are:

  • Li MEGA: A highly innovative family MPV flagship
  • Li L9: A six-seater family SUV flagship
  • Li L8: A six-seater premium family SUV flagship
  • Li L7: A five-seater flagship family SUV flagship

Li Auto focuses on producing next-generation electric vehicle technologies. They manufacture smart vehicle solutions and patented range extension systems.

Geely

It started in 1997 as a division of Zhejiang Geely Holding Group. Geely Auto is a well-known automaker whose manufacturing site is in Hangzhou, China. Geely has entered the electric cars/vehicle market. They sell:

6the Top China Electric Vehicle Company Geely

  • The Galaxy L7 SUV is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV)
  • Galaxy E8 (All-Electric) is an all-electric car

Another brand, Geely Yinhe, is also advancing in electric vehicles. They intend to release long-range electric hybrid vehicles like the Yinhe L7 SUV and the L6 Sedan.

XPeng

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Xpeng Motor, or XPeng, is in Guangzhou. It is a Chinese startup committed to reshaping the transportation landscape. XPeng started in 2014. The goal is to set the standard for smart mobility and high-tech innovation.

7the Top China Electric Vehicle Company XPeng

The following are their Models of Vehicles:

XPengX9: A model designed for  travel exploration
G6: their smart SUV
P5: A new-gen competent sedan
G3i: their trendy urban SUV

XPeng offers self-operated charging networks with nationwide coverage. This strategy helps users address their concerns.  Among these networks are:

  • Super Charge services
  • Charge services at home
  • Services for destination charging

Huawei

The Chinese IT giant Huawei has also advanced in electric vehicles (EVs). Their services focus on their campaign called Huawei DriveONE.

Huawei has over 30 years of experience in power electronics from the ICT sector. Huawei combines cutting-edge digital technologies for EVs. This includes artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and big data.

8the Top China Electric Vehicle Company Huawei

They offer solutions with consistency and ease to their clients. You can depend on them for security and reliability. The EV Models from Huawei are:

  • AITO M5 EV: A premium travel experience and cutting-edge technology in a medium-sized SUV2.
  • Series SF5: Despite not being produced by Huawei directly, it uses their technology and has an extended-range electric vehicle system3.
  • Future Luxeed EV: A collaboration between Huawei and EV manufacturer Chery, scheduled for release in the near future

Changan Auto

Changan Car boasts a strong 157-year industry history among China’s leading car firms. And, Changan is a well-known domestic Chinese automaker. It is one of the firsts in the Chinese auto industry. They have 35 years of experience producing and marketing passenger cars.

9the Top China Electric Vehicle Company Changan Auto

The Changan Eado EV Green Travel is one of their noteworthy electric vehicles (EVs). It has an elegant look. The speed and handling have enhanced appearance. The drag coefficient is only 0.29.

Great Wall Motors

With 157 years of manufacturing experience, GWM has a rich history. It has been producing and marketing passenger cars for 35 years. They are one of the masters of the Chinese auto industry. Ultimately, GWM intends to stop selling gasoline and diesel automobiles by 2030.

10the Top China Electric Vehicle Company Great Wall Motors

GWM is embracing sustainable mobility and EV production. Haval, their sub-brand, is leading this change in advance. GWM wants completely electric vehicles (EVs) or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) to account for 80% of their sales by 2025.

 

3. Where to Source Electric Vehicles in China?

There are different channels where you can purchase electric vehicles in China. Here are ways you can try:

1) Direct Companies or Dealers

There are authorized dealers you can call or reach to inquire about their cars. You can talk to these licensed EV dealers that Chinese automakers operate. In Asian countries, you can find their showrooms in some of the major cities.

Various electric models from brands such as Great Wall Motors (GWM), SAIC, BYD, and Geely are available. These dealerships offer sales services, test drives, and information.

2) Chinese Apps

You can look through internet resources to locate EVs that are for sale. There are websites and e-commerce platforms that allow you check and compare. You can check on its features, look at several models, and ask questions.

Some reliable e-commerce sites like Alibaba or Made in China are good sources, too. You can check the official brand websites if you want it more reliable.

3) Sourcing Agents

There are sourcing companies in China that are very helpful. These firms can help you with the Chinese electric vehicle market because they offer different services. They have a list of authorized dealers, EV retailers, or contacts directly with the EV company or factory.

Sourcing companies can make sourcing or purchasing EV cars easy and smooth for you. They can point you to the right channel where you want to buy. For example, if you are interested in plug-in electric vehicles in China, you can look for specialized dealers and direct-to-company agents.

Once you have decided to buy, they can also assist with the importing process. They can help get Customs clearance and the shipping.

If you are looking for a reliable and trusted sourcing firm, JustChinaIt is your one-stop company. They are an expert with sourcing and are very professional with their work.

 

4. Things to Check When Sourcing Electric Vehicles in China

If you plan to purchase electric vehicles in China, you must understand a few things. It is because you need help with the charging station or options available at your place.

There are several factors to consider, too.

For example, if you purchase cars in China that are right-hand drive, would it be allowed in a left-hand drive country? Can you customize it? Do you do short or long drives? Because you need to consider the driving pattern and type of EV you will purchase.

You also have to check if the vehicle’s comfort is satisfactory. A test drive is necessary when you are purchasing the traditional cars. And so are the electric vehicles. But if you cannot do a test drive, you should be sure that the one you buy will give you the best driving experience.

After considering the type of car, budget, charging stations, and license plate control, you still need to check on the following:

 

1) Suppliers or EV Car Dealers

You need to find and transact only with legitimate suppliers of China Electric Vehicles.  We have given you the top list of excellent brands you can buy. You can find a section listing its authorized dealers and partners on its website.

If you find local dealerships of a China electric vehicle, visit their showrooms to learn about each model. Ask the Pros and Cons.

Look at more than just appearance; check the overall features and intelligent functions. Ask where you can find charging stations and fix battery-related concerns.

If you buy from online places like Alibaba or JD.com, check on the supplier’s business license. You also have to check on the seller’s ratings and reviews.

Verify their contact information because you need legitimate phone numbers and shops or addresses.

Lastly, check your supplier’s legal compliance. Verify that the dealers and suppliers abide by Chinese laws and safety requirements. Be sure to understand any import/export regulations.

 

2) Requirements

Here are some of the important requirements you need when you buy EVs in China:

 

Documents and Records

  •  Original Registration Certificate: You must show the original registration certificate when purchasing an electric vehicle (EV) in China.
  •  Purchase Invoice: Verify that you have the dealer’s purchase invoice.
  •  Identity Documents: Keep up-to-date copies of your identification.

Policies and Incentives of the Government

China strongly encourages the use of EVs by enacting favorable laws. They have China electric vehicle subsidies. You can check the incentives for tax, financial subsidies, and laws limiting license plate use.

Recognize any special conditions about government purchases. For example, government fleets frequently favor electric vehicles.

 

5) Price

For you to appreciate the price of China’s electric vehicles, let us compare it to that of a US EV. In China, the average cost of an EV has decreased dramatically over time. A battery electric vehicle (BEV) costs around $31,8291.

The average cost of an EV has gone up in the US. The average cost of an EV increased from $52,837 to $63,8642.

In general, electric vehicles cost less in China than in the US. The electric vehicle (EV) costs 33% less in China than a gasoline-powered vehicle, while it costs 27% more in the US and 43% more in Europe.

 

6) Shipping and Delivery

There are a few steps to take for the delivery and shipping process for an electric vehicle (EV) ordered from China.

The shipping methods can be:

LCL or Shared Container

Your car is delivered and placed with several cars in one container. While this method is less expensive, it could take longer because of the need to coordinate with other shipments.

FCL or Sole Containers

A single EV has its own whole container. Although it costs a little more, this guarantees speedier delivery.

Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) Services

Generally regarded as the best choice, RoRo services entail directing the EV  straight onto a designated ship. It reduces handling risks and is effective.

 

7) Get Customs Clearance

There are customs requirements when you buy or import an EV. You need the legal and accurate documentation. That includes the original purchase invoice and registration certificate. Then you need to pay the customs fees.

Shipping and Delivery

8) EV Shipping

The EV is shipped to the port of departure in China after it is loaded in the container. The shipping companies will take care of the logistics, including packing the car inside the container. Then it will be transported to the port of destination.

Once it reaches the port of destination, it will undergo Customs clearance. Then, it will be delivered directly to the buyer or the authorized car dealer. The dealer will be in charge of the license and registration papers.

 

9)Warranty/After Sales Services

Electric vehicles become increasingly popular in China because of their great energy efficiency and minimal emissions. China electric vehicle sales include warranties and after-sales services:

Coverage Under Warranty

  • Battery Guarantee

The Chinese EV manufacturers offer a guarantee that is exclusive to the battery. Usually, this guarantee lasts for a specific time or a predetermined distance (e.g., eight years or 100,000 kilometers).

Within the warranty term, the manufacturer will replace or repair the battery if it fails.

  • Car Warranty

EVs have a warranty that covers a variety of components, excluding wear and tear items. The length of this warranty varies by manufacturer and lasts between three and five years.

For After-Sales Service, they have a wide network of approved service shops specifically for electric vehicles. This is for car maintenance, fixes, and software upgrades.

They can have their cars checked, like tire rotations, brake inspections, and fluid checks.

EVs depend significantly on software to perform a variety of tasks. Car makers have Over-the-air (OTA) software updates. This is important for functionality, correcting faults, and improving performance.

 

5. Qualities of Electric Vehicles in China

 

 1) Designs and Car features

EV cars from China combine their designs’ aesthetics, affordability, and functionality. They offer intelligent features for high performance and power. Overall, their EV designs range from high-performance luxury cars to both efficient and practical options.

 

 2) Value

Since EVs have fewer moving parts than conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, maintenance costs are lower. Charging an electric vehicle is so far less expensive than fueling a gasoline-powered vehicle.

 

 3) Quality

The EV market in China is competitive, so car makers work hard to uphold strict quality standards. They conduct strict quality testing and certification. This will guarantee that every car satisfies safety and performance standards.

 

 4) Environmental benefits

The quality of the air around our environment improves when we use electric vehicles. Because EVs emit no tailpipe emissions, they lessen air pollutants.

Compared to IEC or internal combustion engines, electric motors are, by nature, more efficient. The car is powered directly by more energy from the battery. EVs reduce waste through material recycling and repurposing.

 

6. FAQS

 

1) Why is China a leader in electric vehicles?

China leads the global electric vehicle (EV) industry due to many reasons. This is due to their strong local growth, strategic government assistance, and lower production costs than their rivals. It is expected to nearly quadruple its worldwide market share by 2030.

They see that the subsidies, raw materials abundance, and their push toward electric vehicle innovation are factors for their leadership. They have the most developed home market. The supply chains, government assistance, and production prices in China are all favorable.

 

2) What is the most popular EV in China?

Some of the most popular EVs in China are as follows:

  1. Hongguang Mini(SAIC-GM-Wuling)
  2. Qin(BYD)
  3. Model Y(Tesla)
  4. Model 3(Tesla)
  5. Han(BYD)
  6. Song(BYD)
  7. Li-One(Li Auto)
  8. eQ(Chery)
  9. Benben EV(Changan)
  10. Aion S(GAC Motor spin-off)
  11. Ora Black Cat(Great Wall Motor)
  12. P7(Xpeng)
  13. Tang(BYD)
  14. Ora Good Cat(Great Wall Motor)
  15. Nezha V(Hozon Auto)

 

3) Are Chinese EV cars good?

Certainly! Getting a Chinese electric vehicle is efficient and effective. Research and development resulted in significant technological improvements in electric vehicles.

The battery technology made a big progress. EV companies like BYD, NIO, and XPeng have been creating dependable and effective battery systems.

The prices are also competitive. A variety of consumers can now afford the affordable electric vehicles (EVs) that brands like BYD and Wuling have introduced.

 

4) Can I buy a Chinese electric car online?

Yes. You can purchase the car online through authorized dealers and sellers on major platforms or apps like Alibaba. You can also go to their official websites, and a sales representative will assist you.

 

5) How much does a Chinese electric car cost in China?

We will give you two examples. The Wuling Hongguang Mini, after subsidies, is roughly 62,900 yuan (roughly $9,722). It is one of China’s best-selling EVs. More expensive than entry-level alternatives, NIO’s ES6 SUV begins at about 346,660 yuan (about $48,219 after subsidies).

 

7. Summary and Conclusion

 

China is at the top of the electric vehicle (EV) market for a variety of reasons. This is because they have lower production costs than their competitors. They recognize that their leadership is a result of their push for the development of electric vehicles, the availability of raw resources, and subsidies.

Buying electric vehicles in China is worth the investment. They offer remarkable qualities, such as luxurious designs, intelligent car features, affordability, and environmental benefits.

Globally, China is the nation that produces the most number of electric vehicles. Every year, the producers turn out millions of electric cars. This has a significant market share.

China has invested a lot in the construction of EV charging stations. There is an extensive public charging station network there. This promoted the use of EV cars on the market.

You must find and do business exclusively with reputable China Electric Vehicle providers. We’ve provided you with the best choices of well-known brands. If you need help sourcing the best electric vehicle in China, our company, JustChinaIt, can greatly help you.

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