Road Blog With more Chinese EVs come fewer choices

The majority of these brands are focused on offering SUVs, while four-door saloon and hatchback options are rare

- Lee Nian Tjoe

If variety is the spice of life, then modern motoring life in Singapore is a bland diet of electric sport utility vehicles (SUVs), served by more and more Chinese carmakers.

These vehicles are sleek, more affordable and better equipped than their European counterparts, and gaining ground fast.

In the first six months of 2025, Chinese brands accounted for more than 25 per cent of all new car registrations, up from 16.8 per cent over the same period in 2024.

Having plenty of features is pretty much the norm for Chinese cars. Factor in the generous rebate for electric vehicles (EVs) that helps to lower the upfront cost, and they appeal to buyers who want maximum bang for their buck.

Chinese carmakers are just as keen to serve this burgeoning demand.

From 2023 to June 2025, the number of Chinese car brands in Singapore grew from four to 11, with more on the way.

But for all the new badges, the actual choice is thinning.