The electric vehicle (EV) landscape in China experienced a week of mixed fortunes at the close of August 2025, with notable fluctuations among leading manufacturers. As the demand for EVs continues to surge, several brands reported significant increases in registrations, while others faced declines. This dynamic environment reflects the ongoing evolution of the automotive market in one of the world’s largest EV hubs.
During the week ending August 31, various manufacturers showcased diverse performance metrics. Tesla led the charge with an impressive 12,500 units registered, marking a substantial 21.4% increase from the previous week. However, it still fell short of last year’s figures for the same week, which stood at 14,400 units. Meanwhile, Leapmotor surged to a remarkable 13,900 units, up 14.9% from the week prior and showcasing a staggering 98.57% increase year-over-year.
Key Market Highlights
- BYD: Recorded 69,400 registrations, a slight decrease of 1.7% from the previous week.
- Nio: Registered 8,200 units, reflecting an 8.3% growth week-on-week.
- Xiaomi: Achieved a milestone with 11,900 units, up 45.1% from the previous week, marking a 310.34% increase year-on-year.
- Onvo: Saw a decline, with 3,700 registrations, down 9.8% from the previous week.
Emerging Trends
Leapmotor has emerged as a formidable contender in the EV sector, outpacing Tesla in China with a staggering 99% year-over-year growth. This brand, backed by Stellantis, has made headlines with its impressive sales performance, often flying under the radar.
Additionally, Nio’s newly launched Firefly model achieved a record 1,500 registrations, reflecting a 69.9% increase from the previous week, further solidifying Nio’s position in the competitive landscape.
Industry Dynamics
Despite the positive trends, the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM) has advised against the publication of weekly registration figures by companies like Li Auto, arguing that it may fuel unhealthy competition. This has led to a shift in how companies report their data, with many adhering to CAAM’s recommendations.
As the EV market continues to evolve, these registration figures are critical for analysts and investors aiming to gauge overall sales trends and forecast future deliveries. While manufacturers report their monthly sales, the registration data reflects actual vehicles ready for road use, providing a clearer picture of market activity.
In summary, China’s EV market in late August 2025 shows a landscape filled with both challenges and opportunities. With some brands experiencing robust growth and others facing setbacks, the ongoing competition will likely shape the future trajectory of electric mobility in the region.