The China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM) released latest data showing China's vehicle exports reached 1.037 million units in June, up 11.6% month-on-month and 75.1% year-on-year, marking the first time monthly exports exceeded one million. NEV exports totaled 523,000 units, surging 160% YoY. Cumulative H1 exports hit 5.096 million units, up 65.3%.
Historic Milestone: Monthly Exports Break One Million
CAAM's July 9 data release sent ripples across the global auto industry. June vehicle exports reached 1.037 million units, with month-on-month growth of 11.6% and a staggering year-on-year increase of 75.1%. This marks the first time in history that China's monthly auto exports have crossed the one-million threshold—a defining milestone in the industry's globalization journey.
By powertrain type, NEVs and ICE vehicles are driving growth in tandem. June NEV exports hit 523,000 units, up 17.2% MoM and 160% YoY. Traditional fuel vehicle exports reached 514,000 units, up 6.4% MoM and 32.7% YoY. The NEV segment's significantly higher growth rate underscores the accelerating global competitiveness of China's new energy supply chain.
Half-Year Data in Full View
Cumulatively, China's vehicle exports for January-June 2026 totaled 5.096 million units, up 65.3% YoY. NEV exports reached 2.355 million units, up 120% YoY. NEV production and sales hit 7.438 million and 7.446 million units respectively, growing 6.7% and 7.3%. Notably, NEVs accounted for nearly 60% of total new vehicle sales in June.
Indicator | June Data | YoY Growth | H1 Total | H1 Growth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Total Vehicle Exports | 1.037M units | +75.1% | 5.096M | +65.3% |
NEV Exports | 523K units | +160% | 2.355M | +120% |
ICE Exports | 514K units | +32.7% | 2.741M | +35% |
NEV Sales Share | ~60% | — | — | — |
Key Drivers Behind the Export Acceleration
Multiple factors are converging to power China's sustained export surge:
Integrated NEV supply chain: From batteries to intelligent systems, China offers the world's most complete new energy vehicle ecosystem with dual cost and technology leadership
Maturing brand portfolio: BYD, Chery, SAIC, and Changan have built recognizable brand equity across Central Asia, Southeast Asia, South America, and the Middle East
Deepening localization: Shifting from pure exports to overseas manufacturing and local supply chains improves responsiveness and regulatory compliance
Policy and financial backing: Export credit, overseas warehousing, and FTA tariff reductions continue to expand
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