Chinese brands gain as Europe car sales rise

Europe’s auto market grew in April as registrations across the EU, UK and EFTA rose 7% to 1,152,315 vehicles, with January–April totals 4.8% higher year‑on‑year. Electrified vehicles (BEV, PHEV, hybrid) surged ~21%, accounting for over two‑thirds of registrations, while petrol and diesel sales fell roughly 15% and 17%. The shift toward lower‑emission cars — driven by policy support, subsidies and higher fuel costs — is boosting EV‑focused brands and helping Chinese automakers expand market share: BYD’s registrations jumped 114.5% to 27,008 and Chery rose ~322%. Tesla also recovered, with April registrations up 46.5% to 10,654. Established European makers showed mixed results. Market impact: stronger EV demand supports earnings and valuations for EV and Chinese carmakers and should be positive for European auto exposure within broad indices (Europe 50), while traditional petrol/diesel‑focused names may face headwinds.