Chinese brands gain market share in France

Chinese automotive brands have grown significantly in the French market, reaching a 5.8% share in the first nine months of 2026, with 71,856 cars sold. This is a marked increase from a 1.8% share in 2024, despite the overall decline in new passenger car sales in France.

New entrants and leading brands

Thirteen Chinese brands were active in France as of September 30, 2026, with some, like Chery and Aion (GAC), launching their networks in early September. MG and BYD are the top performers, with 25,550 and 22,667 registrations, respectively, together controlling 67% of the market share.

Consumer behavior and preferences

According to AAA DATA, 62% of Chinese brand buyers previously owned used cars, compared to 35% for other brands. The average age of these used cars is also higher, at 88 months, compared to 81 months for other buyers, indicating a shift from older vehicles to new Chinese models.

Shift from diesel to Chinese brands

Chinese brand buyers are more likely to have previously owned diesel vehicles, with 32% of them doing so, compared to 25% for other buyers. In contrast, only 25% of Chinese brand buyers previously owned gasoline vehicles, compared to 45% for other buyers, suggesting a preference for alternative fuel options.

French brands affected by competition

French generalist brands like Peugeot and Renault are among the most impacted by the rise of Chinese brands. Peugeot, in particular, accounted for 11.3% of the previous vehicles owned by Chinese brand buyers, with models like the 3008 and 2008 being notable examples.

Price advantage and product diversity

Chinese brands are gaining traction due to their price advantage, with models often priced 15% lower in the B segment and up to 35% lower in the D SUV segment compared to the median market price. They have also increased their product offerings, representing 48% of the 31 new models launched in France in the first five months of 2026.

Shift in model focus

Initially focused on electric vehicles, Chinese manufacturers have shifted toward hybrid models due to European customs barriers and French taxation policies. In 2024, 73% of new Chinese models were electric, but this dropped to 56% in 2025 and rose slightly to 60% in the first five months of 2026. Meanwhile, other manufacturers have increased their electric model share from 53% to 69%.