In April 2026, Chery exported 177,600 vehicles setting a new monthly record, while BYD overseas sales exceeded 130,000 units for the first time with 70.9% year-over-year growth. Both brands target 1.5 million overseas sales in 2026.
Export Records: Chery and BYD Battle for Dominance
April 2026 marked historic breakthroughs for Chinese auto exports. Chery exported 177,600 vehicles, setting a new monthly record. BYD overseas sales exceeded 130,000 units for the first time, up 70.9% year-over-year. The two giants are racing intensely in overseas markets.
This continues the strong momentum from 2025, when China's auto exports reached 5.86 million units, maintaining global leadership. While growth has moderated in early 2026, leading brands continue expanding their advantage.
Export Top Three Structure
April exports revealed clear tier differentiation:
| Brand | April Exports | YoY Change | Core Markets | Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chery | 177,600 units | Steady growth | Russia, Middle East, South America | Deep dive, localization |
| BYD | 134,500 units | +70.9% | Europe, SE Asia, Latin America | Blitz, premium breakthrough |
| Geely | 245% growth | Explosive | Europe, SE Asia | Brand portfolio, multi-point |
Chery's "deep dive" strategy shows in long-term local investments. In Russia, Middle East, and South America, Chery has established mature dealer networks and after-sales systems. Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 series have accumulated strong overseas reputation.
BYD's "blitz" strategy relies on technology advantages and premium positioning. Second-generation Blade Battery and flash-charging technology become differentiated selling points. Europe, Southeast Asia, and Latin America are advancing simultaneously.
Overseas Targets: Both Aim for 1.5 Million
Chery and BYD both target 1.5 million overseas sales in 2026, setting up direct competition.
Implementation paths differ:
- Chery: Continue deepening existing markets, improve localization rates, expand into Central Asia and Africa
- BYD: Accelerate European factory construction (Hungary plant), advance Thailand and Brazil capacity
- Geely: Leverage Zeekr and Lynk & Co brand matrix for premium exports
Implications for Central Asian and Russian Buyers
The Chery-BYD export race brings more choices and stronger guarantees to Central Asian and Russian markets. Chery has years of cultivation in Central Asia with brand recognition and service network advantages. BYD attracts premium buyers through technology leadership. Competition between the two giants will drive continuous quality improvement and more competitive pricing. Through EX1000.COM, Central Asian and Russian buyers can access the latest export information and procurement channels for Chery and BYD.
