Which Chinese EV OEMs are leading in the South American market?

BYD and Geely are leading in the South American market, with over 400% growth.

What is the main reason for the expansion of Chinese EV OEMs into South America and Southeast Asia?

The main reason for the expansion is to hedge against rising trade barriers in Europe and to capitalize on high-growth markets.

Chinese EV OEMs Expand Globally: Chery, BYD, and Geely Lead in South America and Southeast Asia

According to the latest data from Gasgoo, Chinese passenger vehicle exports have shown significant regional differentiation. This trend is particularly evident in the European, Southeast Asian, and South American markets, where brands like Chery, BYD, and Geely are leading the charge.

Quick Take: Chinese EV OEMs, such as Chery, BYD, and Geely, are expanding their global footprint, with notable growth in South America and Southeast Asia, driven by strategic diversification to mitigate trade barriers in Europe.

Regional Export Trends

As of April 2026, the export figures for Chinese passenger vehicles reveal a clear pattern of regional specialization and growth. Here’s a breakdown of the key trends:

European Market

Chery leads with 147,771 units exported, followed closely by SAIC Motor and BYD, forming a stable first tier.
New entrants like Leapmotor and Smart (a joint venture between Geely and Daimler) are also making significant inroads.

Southeast Asian Market

Geely has taken the top spot, with multiple brands including Leapmotor and Jiangling achieving double or even triple-digit growth.
This region is becoming increasingly important for Chinese OEMs looking to diversify their market presence.

North American Market

The North American market shows mixed results, with SAIC-GM-Wuling maintaining its lead, while other brands like SAIC-GM, Changan Ford, and Tesla continue to grow.
Some domestic and Korean joint ventures, however, have experienced significant declines.

South American Market

South America is the strongest growth area, with all brands showing high growth rates. Notably, BYD and Geely are leading with over 400% growth.
This region is becoming a key market for Chinese OEMs, driven by strong demand and favorable market conditions.

Middle Eastern Market

Chery remains the top brand, with BYD, Great Wall, Karry, and Dongfeng Passenger Vehicle also showing strong growth.
The Middle East is another region where Chinese OEMs are making significant inroads, driven by a mix of new and established brands.

Strategic Implications

The expansion of Chinese EV OEMs into high-growth markets like South America and Southeast Asia is a strategic move to hedge against rising trade barriers in Europe. This diversification not only helps these companies maintain their global footprint but also ensures they can capitalize on emerging opportunities in different regions.

Conclusion

The rapid expansion of Chinese EV OEMs into global markets, particularly in South America and Southeast Asia, underscores the industry's resilience and adaptability. As these brands continue to grow, they are likely to play an increasingly important role in shaping the global automotive landscape.