Reuters: Chinese Carmakers Close In on Japanese Automakers' Traditional Right-Hand Drive Market
According to a June 18 report by Reuters (Japanese edition): Chinese automakers are rapidly entering the right-hand drive vehicle market, launching luxury electric vehicles aimed at affluent consumers from Austria to Southeast Asia, challenging long-established Japanese manufacturers such as Toyota.
At the opening of the Hong Kong International Motor Show on the 18th, Chinese brands including BYD, Zeekr, Hongqi, and MG plan to unveil products and strategies tailored for this market. For decades, Hong Kong's streets have been dominated by Japanese cars. The Toyota Crown has long been the mainstream choice for taxis, while the Alphard has remained popular among wealthy families as a luxury minivan.
However, according to data from Hong Kong’s Transport Department, electric vehicles accounted for over 80% of newly registered private cars in Hong Kong between January and April this year. Chinese brands such as BYD, GAC Aion, Lynk & Co, and Dinan are accelerating their momentum, surpassing Japanese counterparts in both commercial and premium car segments.
BYD has firmly established itself in Hong Kong’s taxi industry, replacing Toyota. The Zeekr 009 and Dinan D9 together outsold the Alphard in the first four months of the year.
Since March, rising crude oil prices have boosted sales of Chinese electric vehicles and reignited international interest in Chinese automakers.
Toyota’s market share in Southeast Asia and Oceania both declined by 4.1% in the first four months of the year, while Chinese companies expanded their foothold. Having secured their position in China’s domestic automotive market, Chinese manufacturers are now turning their sights toward overseas luxury vehicle markets.
Hongqi, a brand under China FAW Group, is making its debut at the Hong Kong Auto Show with a right-hand drive electric SUV. Geely’s luxury brand Zeekr plans to launch the “009 Glory” and “9X” models as part of its global premium consumer strategy.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1868304595172359/
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