Most conversations about electric vehicles revolve around Tesla, BYD’s exports, and the handful of European models, assembled primarily overseas. But inside China, the largest EV market, the story is quite different.
Dozens of EVs – some impressively affordable, others genuinely high-tech – never make it past the country’s border, despite being among the most interesting vehicles on the market today.
Here are 10 of the best EVs you can only buy in China:
1. BYD Seal
Price: 109,800 to over 200,000 yuan ($15,300–$28,000).
Miles: 323 to 354 miles per charge (WLTP cycle)
The BYD Seal sits firmly in the electric saloon segment as a direct alternative to cars like the Tesla Model 3. Its exterior design leans sporty, with clean lines, slim headlights, and a full-width rear light bar. Inside, the cabin takes a very different approach from Tesla’s minimalist layout, opting instead for layered materials and a more traditional dashboard structure that still feels cohesive and well-built.
The large central touchscreen is responsive and visually sharp, though many functions are nested within menus, making it less intuitive while driving. Practicality is reasonable for the class, with a 400-litre boot and decent rear-seat space, though rivals offer more outright room.
On the road, the Seal delivers confident handling and feels composed on twisty roads, even with its weight. Range tops out at 323 miles officially, with fast charging up to 150kW.
2. NIO ET7
Price: Starts at around 428,000 yuan ($59,000)
Miles: 664 miles on a single charge of its 150kWh battery pack
The NIO ET7 is positioned as a flagship electric sedan, blending premium design with advanced technology. Its standout feature is NIO’s battery-swapping system, which allows drivers to replace a depleted battery in roughly five minutes at automated stations.
The ET7 is available with 75kWh, 100kWh, or 150kWh battery packs, with the largest offering a range exceeding 400 miles (WLTP). Dual motors deliver 483hp, enabling strong performance alongside a focus on comfort, supported by standard air suspension and adaptive damping.
Inside, the cabin emphasises space and comfort, particularly in the rear, where features like heated, ventilated, and massaging seats are standard.
3. Jaecoo E5
Price: Ranges from roughly 257,000 to 285,000 yuan ($37,000–$41,000).
Miles: 248 miles per charge
The Jaecoo E5 focuses on value, offering competitive pricing without relying on government incentives. While the interior design is straightforward, higher trims add softer materials and additional driver assistance features.
The infotainment system is large and responsive, with configurable shortcuts and features such as pet and camping modes. Official range is 248 miles, with real-world figures closer to 225 miles. Fast-charging speeds are modest, which may limit appeal for frequent long-distance drivers.
4. MG S5 EV
Price: Entry-level pricing starts at around 99,900 yuan ($13,950)
Miles: 211 and 298 miles (WLTP), depending on the battery size and trim level
The MG S5 EV replaces the ZS EV and reflects a more refined approach, addressing feedback from earlier MG electric models. Interior quality has improved noticeably, with more soft-touch materials and physical controls for frequently used functions.
The S5 offers generous interior space and a practical boot, making it suitable for families. Rear-wheel drive contributes to balanced handling, while range and charging performance remain competitive for the segment.
5. Smart #3
Price: Ranges from 164,900 to 209,900 yuan ($23,000–$29,300)
Miles: 283 miles per charge
Built on the same platform as the Smart #1, the #3 offers more interior space and a coupe-inspired SUV shape. Rear-seat room is generous, though boot capacity trails some rivals.
Most versions use a single rear-mounted motor producing 268bhp, with a dual-motor Brabus variant available for higher performance. Range varies between 270 and 283 miles, depending on trim.
6. MG HS (Plug-in Hybrid)
Price: Ranges from 109,800 to 169,800 yuan ($15,500–$24,000)
Miles: Offers up to 75 miles of electric-only range (WLTP)
The MG HS PHEV combines electric driving with a petrol engine for extended range. Its electric-only range reaches up to 75 miles, sufficient for many daily commutes, while the petrol engine supports longer trips.
Interior space is generous, and material quality compares well with mainstream rivals.
7. Smart #1
Price: Roughly 179,000 to 225,900 yuan ($25,200–$35,300).
Miles: 273 miles per charge.
The Smart #1 is a compact electric SUV offering brisk performance from its 268bhp rear-mounted motor. Charging is competitive, with a 10–80% charge achievable in under 30 minutes under optimal conditions.
Range peaks at around 273 miles, and while boot space is limited, additional front storage helps offset this.
8. Xpeng G6
Price: Starts at around 176,800 yuan ($24,400)
Miles: Between 270 and 354 miles, determined by the battery size and drivetrain.
The Xpeng G6 targets the same segment as the Tesla Model Y, combining competitive pricing with a technology-focused interior. It offers standard and long-range variants, delivering up to 354 miles of range.
Standard equipment includes extensive driver assistance systems, heated and ventilated seats, and multiple driving modes.
9. BYD Sealion 7
Price: EV versions start at around 189,800 yuan
Miles: Between 283 and 312 miles per charge
The Sealion 7 is a mid-size SUV prioritising space and efficiency over sporty dynamics. Interior design is restrained, with a focus on practicality and passenger comfort, particularly in the rear seats.
Battery and motor performance are strong, though ride comfort and noise levels vary depending on road conditions.
10. MG Cyberster
Price: Ranges from approximately 319,900 to 359,800 yuan ($44,300–$49,800)
Miles: Up to 316 miles, depending on whether you choose the rear-wheel drive (RWD) or high-performance all-wheel drive (AWD) model
The MG Cyberster stands out as a rare electric roadster, combining distinctive styling with strong straight-line performance. Features like scissor doors and a multi-screen cockpit give it a dramatic presence, though practicality is limited.
Available with outputs up to 510hp, it prioritises comfort and cruising over track-focused handling.
Ogbonda Chivumnovu
