In 2025, China’s automotive market delivered astonishing results that left neither experts nor competitors indifferent. Over twelve months, more than 34.4 million new cars were sold in the country—a record-breaking figure that poses a real challenge for the entire global industry. Every new car sold in China became part of a worldwide shift toward electrification, as nearly half of all sales were either electric vehicles or hybrids. Such momentum is beyond even the boldest dreams of Europe’s top manufacturers.
Special attention went to the Geely EX2—a compact electric crossover that burst into the sales charts and became a symbol of change. Within a year, Chinese buyers snapped up 465,775 units of this model, allowing it to outpace not only every rival among EVs but also traditional gasoline and diesel cars. It’s an impressive accomplishment for a car that debuted on the market just 14 months ago.
A market on the brink of transformation
The sales dynamics in China in 2025 surprised even the most seasoned analysts. Growth reached 9.4% compared to the previous year, with production surpassing 34 million units. China not only retained its status as the world’s largest car market—it strengthened its leadership for the seventeenth year in a row. Domestic demand proved so strong that car exports also increased, and the share of electric vehicles and hybrids nearly reached 50% of the total market.
The new energy vehicle (NEV) segment saw a 28.2% increase. This isn’t just a statistic—it’s a signal to the global industry: China is setting new standards, forcing European and American brands to respond. For the first time on record, electric vehicles have become not just a trendy choice, but a true mass alternative to traditional cars.
Geely EX2: A Phenomenal Success
The Geely EX2 has truly made a breakthrough in the Chinese market. This compact SUV, measuring 4.13 meters long, 1.80 meters wide, and 1.58 meters high, with a 375-liter trunk, proved to be the ideal solution for urban residents. Built on the modern Global Intelligent Electric Architecture (GEA) platform, it strikes a balance between price, technology, and practicality.
The model is available in two versions: one with a 78 hp electric motor and a 30 kWh battery (up to 310 km range under the Chinese test cycle), and another with a more powerful 114 hp motor and a 40 kWh battery (up to 410 km on a single charge). But the main highlight is the price. In China, the Geely EX2 costs around €7,000, making it virtually unbeatable in terms of value for money.
Europe in the Crosshairs
Geely has officially confirmed that the EX2 is coming to the European market. The first country will be the UK, followed by other nations across the continent. In Europe, this electric crossover will compete with models such as the Renault 5 E-Tech, Citroën ë-C3 and BYD Dolphin Surf. However, the price tag for European buyers will be higher—between €23,000 and €24,000—which still looks very attractive compared to local offerings.
Experts are already calling the Geely EX2 a potential game-changer among affordable electric vehicles. If the Chinese strategy succeeds, the European market is in for a real shake-up. Meanwhile, the model continues to set records in China: for seven consecutive months, sales have topped 40,000 units per month, and in September, that number surpassed 50,000.
A challenge for Europe
The mass entry of Chinese electric vehicles into Europe is only a matter of time. With its price and features, the Geely EX2 could shift the balance of power in the market. European manufacturers are being forced to speed up development of their own budget EVs to maintain their positions. At the same time, Chinese brands are investing actively in local production and service infrastructure to win the trust of European consumers.
While European carmakers debate new standards and environmental requirements, Chinese companies are already offering ready-made solutions. The Geely EX2 is just the first sign of a wave of new models that could completely reshape Europe’s automotive industry in the coming years.
Geely is one of the largest car manufacturers in China, founded in 1986. The company is known for its innovative developments and aggressive expansion into foreign markets. In recent years, Geely has acquired several European brands and has been actively investing in the development of electric vehicle technologies. The EX2 model has become a symbol of a new era in the company’s history, combining affordability, modern technology, and the ambitions of a global leader.
