China is world famous for its cut-throat technology, and its auto sector is no different. There are a large number of car brands and models exclusive to China that the rest of the world is missing out on. After serving their home market for decades, the Chinese automakers are now ready to conquer the world. Here are the top nine Chinese car companies ranked by their sales volume.
Number 9: GAC
China’s GAC (Guangzhou Automobile Group) is known for its premium SUVs and electric vehicles. GAC also produces cars as part of joint ventures with Mitsubishi, Toyota, Honda, and Stellantis. Last year, GAC Group had a total of 450,000 sales through its multiple car brands.
We have heard about GAC introducing its cars in Pakistan. Remember when we told you about the potential launch of GAC GS3? The launch was meant for 2022, but the vehicle may not be able to make it here due to the current hostile auto industry environment. We’ll see.
Number 8: BYD
China’s BYD (Build Your Dreams) company has been making headlines for quite some time now. The company recently announced its big move to stop the production of fuel cars, becoming the world’s first automaker to produce only hybrid and electric vehicles. Last year, BYD Company sold 740,000 vehicles ranging from SUVs to sedans.
Number 7: Dongfeng
Dongfeng Sokon Automobile, commonly known as DFSK, is another Chinese automaker with a lineup of its own car brand and a series of joint ventures with other companies. DFSK’s biggest strength lies in the light commercial vehicle segment. The company sold 762,000 vehicles in 2021.
DFSK has explored the Pakistani market with its crossovers, DFSK Glory 580 and 580 Pro, and light commercial vehicles. The company has plans to introduce more cars, including the DFSK Glory 500.
Number 6: FAW
Next, we have FAW, the oldest car company in China. FAW also has its own brands and joint ventures with other companies. FAW is one of the key manufacturers in China due to its strong ties with the Chinese state officials. Last year, the company sold 810,000 vehicles among its brands.
FAW had a hard time making a place in the Pakistani market. After selling a hatchback and a few commercial vehicle models, the company packed its bags and left the country last year.
Number 5: Chery
Chery, a relatively new Chinese company, is also one of the rising automobile forces. From passenger cars to SUVs and commercial vehicles, Chery has a lot of offerings under its belt. Chery exports its vehicles to many international markets, including Pakistan. In 2021, Chery sold 962,000 vehicles under its name.
Chery has recently re-entered the Pakistani market with a crossover SUV, Chery Tiggo 8 Pro. The new crossover looks promising on paper but has yet to pass the test of time.
Number 4: SAIC
SAIC (Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation) owns a number of car brands and joint ventures. MG is the most popular SAIC brand in Asia and Europe. Last year, SAIC sold 1.11 million vehicles worldwide, including 53,100 units sold in Europe.
We have two famous MG crossovers here in Pakistan, MG HS and MG ZS. After selling CBUs for almost two years, the company is now locally assembling its cars in Pakistan, and we are here for it.
Number 3: GWM
China’s GWM (Great Wall Motors) is famously known for its premium SUVs under the brand name Haval. The company owns other brands named Wey, Tand, ORA, etc. GWM has started exploring the international waters with its SUVs. Last year, the company sold 1.28 million vehicles.
Haval is another Chinese new entrant in the Pakistani market. So far, we have got Haval H6 and Haval Jolion, and we are loving the premium SUVs. Let’s see if and when Haval starts the local production of its cars in Pakistan.
Number 2: Geely
Geely Group is the biggest and strongest Chinese auto giant, with a number of local and foreign brands under its umbrella. Geely owns Polestar, Zeekr, Geometry, Lynk, Volvo, Proton, etc. Thanks to such a wide lineup, Geely sold 2.03 million vehicles in 2021.
In Pakistan, we have a Malaysian Geely brand, Proton. So far, we have got a sedan, Proton Saga, and a crossover SUV, Proton X70.
Number 1: Changan
China’s second most popular domestic brand, Changan, has now become the top seller, with 2.3 million vehicles sold in 2021. Changan produces a wide range of fuel, hybrid, and electric vehicles under the brand names Oshan and Kaicene. The company also has joint ventures with Ford and Mazda.
After launching a sedan, Changan Alsvin, and a crossover, Changan Oshan X7, the company is now expanding its operations in Pakistan with two more crossovers.
Out of the rising Chinese car companies we have in Pakistan, which one is your favourite and why? Let us know in the comments.
None of the Chinese car brands are my favourite not only they copy paste original designs produced by other automakers but also use cheap and forced labour from Uyghur community in China.