Chinese automakers outsold Renault and Audi in Europe in August, boosted by strong plug-in hybrid sales. BYD, Jaecoo, and MG models made the top ten list. Tesla’s Model Y remained popular, but sales dropped 37%. Chinese carmakers had a 5.5% market share, with PHEV sales up 14-fold.

Chinese automakers are increasing exports of PHEVs and HEVs to Europe to bypass EU tariffs on Chinese-made EVs. PHEVs, running on gas and electricity, are gaining popularity as a compromise. PHEV sales in 28 European countries were up 59% in August to almost 84,000, with Chinese brand sales up significantly.

BEV sales in Europe rose 27%, surpassing total market growth. BYD, Chery, and SAIC had models among Europe’s top-selling PHEVs. JATO Dynamics analyst Felipe Munoz noted strong demand for BEVs in August, but a 27% increase wasn’t as significant considering widespread promotion.

BYD announced plans to sell PHEVs in Europe last year and aims to produce all EVs for sale in Europe locally by 2028. Chinese automakers are ramping up efforts to boost their presence in the European market. Tesla’s Model Y, while popular, saw a decline in sales compared to the previous year.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Europe’s plug-in hybrid boom helps Chinese carmakers outsell Renault, Audi in August, report shows