Key insights
- Chinese automakers experienced a surge in overseas sales in March, driven by demand in Europe, Oceania, and Latin America. This growth is attributed to efforts to capitalize on oil price-driven EV demand amid weak domestic sales. While positive for these companies, it suggests increased competition for US automakers in international markets, potentially impacting their long-term growth prospects.
Investing.com -- Chinese automakers BYD, Geely, and Great Wall Motor saw their overseas vehicle registrations rise sharply in March 2026, according to Morgan Stanley data.
BYD's overseas registrations grew 35-40% month-over-month in March, with sales expanding across Europe, Oceania, and Latin America. The UK, Brazil, and Australia together represented approximately 54% of BYD's overseas sales during the month. UK sales reached 15,000 units compared with 2,000 units in February, driven by a fourfold monthly increase in local demand. Brazil sales rose 43% month-over-month to 16,200 units, while Thailand sales recovered to nearly 1,000 units after declining in February.
Geely recorded a 30-35% month-over-month increase in overseas registrations for March, with particularly strong growth in Europe. Russia, Mexico, Australia, and Thailand combined accounted for 65% of Geely's overseas sales. Russia sales grew 27% month-over-month to 7,400 units, while Mexico sales increased 31% month-over-month to 4,600 units. Thailand sales rose 63% month-over-month, supported by EX2 deliveries.
Great Wall Motor's overseas registrations climbed 30-35% month-over-month in March, reflecting strong sales in Russia and Brazil. Russia, Brazil, and Australia together represented approximately 76% of GWM's overseas sales. Russia sales grew 43% month-over-month, while Brazil sales increased 33% month-over-month.
Morgan Stanley stated that automakers are working to capture oil price-driven electric vehicle demand overseas and stay on track with annual targets amid weak domestic demand.