Chinese Automakers Target 3.28 Million-Unit Right-Hand-Drive Markets as Hong Kong Show Opens
Updated
Updated · Reuters · Jun 17
Chinese Automakers Target 3.28 Million-Unit Right-Hand-Drive Markets as Hong Kong Show Opens
3 articles · Updated · Reuters · Jun 17
Summary
BYD, Zeekr, Hongqi and MG are using the Hong Kong auto show to roll out premium EVs and overseas strategies aimed at affluent buyers in right-hand-drive markets from Australia to Southeast Asia.
More than 80% of newly registered private cars in Hong Kong were EVs in the first four months, helping Chinese brands gain traction in both fleet and luxury segments once dominated by Japanese rivals.
BYD has replaced some Toyota taxis in Hong Kong, while Zeekr's 009 and Denza's D9 together outsold Toyota's Alphard in the first four months, signaling inroads with wealthy buyers.
Toyota's market share fell 1.4% in Southeast Asia and 4.1% in Oceania over that period, while Chery gained 1.7% in Southeast Asia and BYD added 2.5% in Oceania.
UBS said higher oil costs since March revived global interest in Chinese EVs, giving automakers a wider opening in ASEAN's 3.28 million-vehicle market and other right-hand-drive regions.
With Chinese EVs surging globally, can legacy automakers like Toyota pivot fast enough to survive the onslaught?
Is the world trading its dependency on Middle Eastern oil for a new reliance on China's EV supply chain?
Chinese EVs Surge Past Japanese Rivals in Right-Hand Drive Markets: Market Share, Consumer Perception, and Global Impact
Overview
As of June 2026, Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) have quickly gained a strong foothold in right-hand drive (RHD) markets like Hong Kong and the Asia-Pacific region. This rapid surge is changing the automotive landscape by challenging long-standing incumbents and raising expectations for innovation and value. Chinese brands are now directly competing with established players, especially in the luxury segment, where models such as Zeekr’s 009 and Denza’s D9 are outperforming traditional favorites like the Toyota Alphard. As a result, traditional automakers are facing increased competition and pressure on their profits, signaling a major shift in market dynamics.