China SUV Sales H1 2024: NEVs Dominate, Li Auto i6 Tops Xiaomi YU7, Fuel-Powered Boyue L Leads

In the first half of 2024, China's SUV market was characterized by new energy vehicles (NEVs) taking the lead, while internal combustion engine (ICE) models held firm in select segments. In the price bracket above RMB 200,000, demand from consumers upgrading or replacing their vehicles surged, making mid-to-high-end SUVs the dominant force in consumption. Among the top ten best-selling SUVs, seven were NEVs, with battery electric vehicles (BEVs) continuing to gain market penetration and generally commanding higher prices than their ICE counterparts. In the NEV segment, the Tesla Model Y led the pack with sales of 172,513 units. The Li Auto i6, launched in September 2023, quickly became a key sales driver for its brand, delivering 120,443 units in the first half—outpacing the Xiaomi SU7’s 104,559 units. The Fangchengbao Bao 7 recorded sales of 94,417 units, while the NIO ES8 sold 78,618 units. Although BYD and Leapmotor did not have any models in the overall top ten, the Leapmotor A10 achieved monthly sales of 24,865 units in June alone, ranking among the top three SUVs that month. Among ICE-powered SUVs, the Geely Boyue L emerged as the most popular, selling 110,621 units. Equipped with intelligent features and built on Geely’s CMA architecture, it offers 1.5T/2.0T powertrains and competitive fuel efficiency. The Volkswagen Tiguan L sold 82,806 units, maintaining its competitiveness through a recent model update and attractive dealership discounts. The Geely Xingyue L followed closely with 82,264 units sold, simultaneously advancing both its intelligent and hybrid variants. Among Japanese brands, the Honda CR-V (69,089 units) and Toyota RAV4 (68,874 units) sustained steady sales thanks to their mature powertrains and practical interior space, while the Toyota Frontlander and Corolla Cross also made it into the top ten ICE SUVs. Overall, NEV SUVs are accelerating their replacement of ICE models, particularly in the RMB 200,000–300,000 segment, where growth has been especially rapid. Meanwhile, in the RMB 100,000–200,000 range, traditionally powered SUVs upgraded with intelligent features continue to retain a solid customer base. Market competition is intensifying, and surviving models generally demonstrate mature product capabilities and strong consumer acceptance.