China's Auto Exports Hit a Record in April: EVs Surpass Traditional Fuel Cars for the First Time and Account for More Than Half
Based on cross-checking three sources, China's passenger car market in April 2026 showed a parallel pattern of weak domestic demand and strong exports. What has been confirmed is that total Chinese auto exports reached 769,000 units, while new energy vehicles, including battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, exported about 406,000 units, accounting for 52.7% of total exports and surpassing traditional fuel-powered cars for the first time. On the domestic sales side, Reuters, citing the CPCA, said Chinese auto sales fell 21.6% year on year in April and declined for the seventh consecutive month. The three sources differ on the growth rate and exact scope of EV exports, and some figures cannot be fully confirmed from the provided sources.