GUANGZHOU -- Honda Motor's sales in China were down 30.9% last year to 852,269 units, falling below 1 million for the first time in nine years as Japanese automakers continue to struggle from price competition with BYD and other local makers.

An “elimination round” is likely to cull weaker players in a market dominated by EVs and plug-in hybrids. Among the early losers are foreign brands.

China's auto exports are estimated to slow notably this year after holding the export crown for a second year in 2024, with no growth predicted for electric vehicle exports, an auto association official said on Thursday.

The outstanding growth in China in a largely stalling global EV landscape bode well for local leaders such as BYD , Geely and Xiaomi

A spokesperson for Chinese automaker BYD has objected to reports about poor conditions at a construction site in Brazil where it is building a factory, saying the allegations were aimed at “smearing” China and Chinese brands.

BYD’s aggressive year-end sales push worked. China’s leading EV maker sold a record number of vehicles in 2024, but

Authorities rescued 163 workers living in inhumane conditions, prompting BYD to sever ties with its construction partner.

BYD, Nio, Xpeng, Li Auto, Stellantis-backed Leapmotor and Geely’s Zeekr all delivered record numbers of EVs last month.

GSI has signed contracts with BYD to build two PCTCs of this type. This is the first one delivered, said the statement. After being put into operation, it will enhance the guarantee capability of China's domestic automobile export transportation, it said.

Tesla rivals BYD, Nio Li Auto, XPeng and Zeekr all reported record December China EV sales as the price war intensified.

Chinese EV maker enjoyed a year-end surge to push total sales to 4.25 million passenger cars last year. Read more at straitstimes.com.

Tesla faces fresh threats as Chinese automakers double down on domestic market in the face of hefty export tariffs in the U.S. and European Union.