Which Chinese automaker has already sold over 20 million cars?
- Published on 03/08/2026 8:02
- Modified on 03/08/2026 8:03
Chinese automakers are no longer low-cost outsiders: they are now global industrial giants
For a long time, in Europe, Chinese car manufacturers were seen as mere low-cost producers, primarily capable of copying Western models. This image is now largely outdated. The figures published by Chery provide a new demonstration of this.
The Chinese group announces that it has surpassed the milestone of 20 million vehicles sold worldwide, becoming the first Chinese automaker to reach such a volume. A figure that reflects its industrial weight, even though its name remains relatively unknown to the general European public.
Founded in 1997, Chery now markets its vehicles in 130 countries and regions. The manufacturer relies on a vast network of factories, research and development centers, and distributors spread around the world. It now employs 150,000 people, more than 20,000 of whom are outside China.
Still Growing
Recent performances are equally impressive. In the first half of 2026, Chery exported 943,800 vehicles, representing a growth of 71.5% in one year. The group even states that a vehicle leaves its factories destined for abroad every 17 seconds. For 23 consecutive years, it has also been the top Chinese exporter of passenger cars.
These figures mainly illustrate a shift in scale. Chinese manufacturers are no longer young brands striving to find their place. They now have industrial power comparable to that of the largest global groups and are investing heavily in electrification, batteries, embedded software, intelligent driving, and new production lines.
In Europe, this rise in power is already visible through the brands OMODA, JAECOO, and CHERY, which are accelerating their development in several markets. Behind these names still relatively new to European drivers lies a group that has been producing millions of vehicles for nearly thirty years.
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The idea that Chinese manufacturers are small emerging players is therefore becoming less and less relevant. While some remain relatively unknown in Europe, they are already among the most powerful automotive companies on the planet. The milestone of 20 million cars sold by Chery is probably the best illustration of this.
ALSO READ: Chery Tiggo: Chinese hybrids take on Peugeot and Renault
This page is translated from the original post "Quel constructeur chinois a déjà vendu plus de 20 millions de voitures ?" in French.
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