China’s Electric Revolution: Leaving the USA in the Dust with 400%+ More EV Sales!

From 2013 to 2023, China electrified the world, selling over 400% more battery electric vehicles (EV) than the USA. Witness the electric revolution unfold as China’s dominance in EV sales leaves the USA trailing behind. A decade of growth reshapes the future of transportation.
How many electric cars in China 2023?
Embarking on a journey through the EV landscape, Techwheel delve into a decade-long exploration of sales trends in China and the USA. Bolstered by data from the International Energy Agency (IEA), we uncover a narrative of exponential growth, contrasting trajectories, and pivotal shifts in the global EV market.
The plot below shows the sales in China and USA over the last 10 years:

China’s EV Sales Trend
- China has shown remarkable growth in EV sales since 2013. From virtually no sales in 2013, China’s EV market has surged to over 16 million units by 2023.
- The growth trajectory is steep, indicating a strong government push towards electric mobility and substantial consumer acceptance.
China’s remarkable growth in EV sales since 2013 can be attributed to several key factors, with the main contributor being the Chinese government’s implementation of robust policies and incentives to promote the adoption of electric vehicles. These policies include subsidies for EV purchases, tax exemptions, and investments in charging infrastructure. Such measures have significantly reduced the cost of EV ownership, making them more attractive to consumers.

Concerns about air pollution and environmental degradation have prompted the Chinese government to prioritize clean energy initiatives, including the promotion of electric vehicles. With China being one of the world’s largest contributors to carbon emissions, transitioning to electric mobility is seen as a crucial step towards achieving environmental sustainability goals.
USA’s EV Sales Trend
- The USA’s EV market has also witnessed significant growth over the years, albeit at a slower pace compared to China.
- Sales started around 100,000 units in 2013 and have risen to approximately 3.5 million units by 2023.
The USA’s EV market has grown steadily, though slower than China’s, starting from around 100,000 units in 2013 to approximately 3.5 million units by 2023. This slower growth can be attributed to less aggressive government policies and incentives compared to China, as well as a strong cultural attachment to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Additionally, the USA’s diverse landscape and varying state regulations contribute to inconsistencies in EV adoption rates across regions. However, increasing environmental awareness, technological advancements, and a widening range of EV options are driving continued growth in the US EV market.

Tesla has been a dominant force in the USA’s EV market, contributing over 50% of the BEV share. This significant market share is largely attributed to Tesla’s innovative electric vehicle offerings, such as the Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y, which have garnered widespread acclaim for their performance, range, and advanced technology. Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network and brand recognition have further solidified its position as a leader in the American EV market.
Comparison between China and USA
- China has consistently outpaced the USA in EV sales, reflecting its aggressive policies and investments in the sector.
- However, the USA’s market, while growing more slowly, still demonstrates a substantial adoption of EVs, indicating increasing awareness and acceptance among consumers.
Techwheel’s analysis illustrates a compelling narrative of the rise of electric mobility, with China and the USA at the forefront of this transformative journey, each with its unique dynamics and contributions.