Top Chinese Cars You Must Know
China’s auto industry has rapidly evolved, producing vehicles that impress with their performance and bold design choices. Innovation here doesn’t rely on flashy gimmicks but on real, road-tested results, and many cars reflect a shift in global perception and offer more than just low prices. As brands expand into new markets, their models are turning into serious contenders. Take a closer look at the Chinese-made vehicles gaining attention for the right reasons.
1. BYD Seal
Built in China by BYD—2023’s top EV manufacturer—the Seal clocks 0–60 mph in 3.8 seconds and offers 800V fast-charging. It sold over 100,000 units in its first year and starts at around $28,000, which is 20% less than the Tesla Model 3.
2. NIO ES6
NIO makes the ES6 in Hefei, offering lightning-fast battery swaps in under five minutes. The refreshed 2023 model includes 900+ upgrades, dual-motor AWD for 0–60 mph in 4.5 seconds, and NOMI—a built-in AI assistant that personalizes the entire experience.
3. XPeng P7
The P7 supports semi-autonomous driving through its XPILOT ADAS system. Built at XPeng’s Zhaoqing plant, it reaches over 435 miles of range on China’s CLTC cycle and includes voice-activated smart cockpit functions. A Tesla-style cabin with a large center touchscreen completes the sleek setup.
4. Hongqi E-HS9
The E-HS9 appeared at the 2022 Beijing Olympics and comes in multiple range configurations suited to its size and performance level. This luxury SUV runs on a 99 kWh battery and offers an upscale interior including massage seats and crystal controls.
5. Li Auto L9
Built in Changzhou, the Li Auto L9 pairs a gas generator and electric motors to achieve over 816 miles of CLTC range. Inside, it seats six zero-gravity recliners, offers a rear cinema screen, and spans a full-width heads-up display across the windshield.
6. NIO ET5
The ET5 rolls out of NIO’s NeoPark facility and can reach over 621 miles on its optional 150 kWh battery pack. Its interior offers Dolby Atmos 7.1 sound and supports AR and VR add-ons. The EV borrows handling and styling cues from classic BMW sports sedans.
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7. Zeekr 001
Produced by Geely in Ningbo, the Zeekr 001 has a 100 kWh CATL NMC battery with a CLTC range of about 407 miles. It's AWD dual-motor setup produces up to 536 horsepower and launches the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds.
8. MG4 EV
SAIC builds this compact hatchback in Nanjing, and it’s one of China’s top automotive exports. The MG4 EV uses a rear-wheel-drive platform balanced 50:50, achieves up to 281 miles of WLTP range, and earned multiple safety awards in Europe in 2023.
9. Geely Geometry C
Geely developed the Geometry C as an efficient urban EV with global appeal. It delivers 267 miles of NEDC range and serves as a top ride-hailing pick in Israel, and the battery coverage even lasts 8 years or 93,000 miles.
10. Ora Good Cat
Inspired by 1960s design, this compact EV delivers over 186 miles of range and includes Level 2 ADAS. Great Wall Motors crafted the Ora Good Cat in Baoding, combining nostalgic looks and practical technology. The car holds a five-star Euro NCAP rating.
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11. Leapmotor C11
Built in Hangzhou, the Leapmotor C11 is available as both a full-electric and extended-range SUV. Huawei’s smart systems and facial recognition aid safety, while optional lidar sensors enhance driver assistance.
12. Voyah Free
Premium materials and a three-screen dash put this in the same league as the BMW iX3 and Audi Q8 e-tron. The Voyah Free comes as either a full EV or an EREV. The BEV variant reaches up to 392 miles of range, while the EREV covers 127 miles on electric power alone.
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13. BYD Tang EV
With a dual-motor system that hits 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and features like heated seats and a panoramic roof, the BYD Tang EV is a hit in Norway’s EV market. This Shenzhen-made car is a 7-seat SUV delivering up to 328 miles on China’s CLTC test cycle.
14. AITO M5
Developed in Chongqing through a Seres-Huawei partnership, the AITO M5 combines HarmonyOS and DriveONE technology in BEV and EREV variants. The cabin includes a voice-activated assistant, and higher trims come with a powerful 1,000W surround sound system for an immersive experience.
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15. NETA S
The NETA S is priced around $25,000 in China—nearly 37% less than competitors like the Tesla Model 3. Developed at Hozon Auto’s Yichun factory, it combines lidar-enabled Level 2+ autonomy and a dual-motor powertrain that reaches 60 mph in 3.9 seconds.
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16. IM L7
A joint venture between SAIC and Alibaba brought the IM L7 sedan, which runs on a 93 kWh battery and reaches 382 miles of range, to life. Four-wheel steering enhances agility, and the plush cabin includes zero-gravity seating and a 19-speaker audio system.
17. BYD Dolphin
This model is one of the first to include BYD’s LFP Blade battery. It also contains a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen and is built at the company’s Changzhou facility. The Dolphin achieves between 211 and 265 miles of WLTP range and starts at around $14,000 in China.
18. Dongfeng M-Hero 917
Made in Wuhan and inspired by Dongfeng’s military-grade vehicles, the M-Hero 917 produces 1,088 horsepower through a quad-motor setup. It accelerates to 60 mph in under four seconds and manages tough off-road terrain with crab-walk movement and tank-turn capabilities.
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19. Baojun Yep
The playful design has gained viral popularity on Chinese social media platforms. SAIC-GM-Wuling manufactures the Baojun Yep, which combines compact size and rugged styling, in Liuzhou. This car travels 188 miles on a full charge and includes a rear digital message display.
20. Lynk & Co 01
A Geely-Volvo partnership made the Lynk & Co 01 in Luqiao. It rides on the same platform as the Volvo XC40. This car is available as a plug-in or full hybrid and supports a subscription ownership model. European buyers also get built-in options for car sharing.
