Chinese automakers are aggressively expanding their presence in global markets, leveraging advancements in new energy vehicles (NEVs) and intelligent driving technologies. Xpeng, a leading NEV startup, recently shipped its first batch of 300 right-hand drive X9 MPVs to Southeast Asia, with Thailand as a key market. The company, already a top performer in European markets like the Netherlands and Norway, aims to cover 60 countries, establish 300 overseas service centers by 2025, and derive half of its sales from international markets by 2033. Similarly, SAIC Motor’s IM brand launched its LS6 model in Thailand, optimized for local preferences.

China became the world’s largest automobile exporter in 2023, with January 2024 exports reaching 470,000 vehicles, a 6.1% year-on-year increase. NEVs accounted for 150,000 units, marking a 49.6% surge. Top exporters like Chery, BYD, and SAIC are driving this growth, with BYD achieving a 91.5% increase in exports. However, challenges such as EU anti-subsidy probes and Russian taxes are prompting a shift from pure exports to local manufacturing. For instance, Chery is building a smart auto industrial park in Malaysia, set to produce 100,000 vehicles annually by 2026.

Despite a strong start, growth is expected to slow by 2025 due to external pressures like tariffs and market saturation. McKinsey predicts single-digit growth but remains optimistic about the potential of plug-in hybrids and smart technologies. Experts recommend tailoring strategies to regional markets, emphasizing high-quality products in Europe and cost-effectiveness in developing countries, while exploring emerging markets like Africa for sustained growth.