Geely Auto has set a clear and aggressive goal: to become the best-selling automotive brand in China by 2026. This follows a strong financial performance in 2025, with the company reporting substantial revenue and profit growth. The move signals a direct challenge to BYD, the current market leader, through both domestic expansion and international outreach.
Financial Strength and Growth Trajectory
Geely reported total revenue of 345.2 billion yuan ($50 billion USD) for 2025, a 25% year-over-year increase. Net profit attributable to shareholders rose by 36% to 14.41 billion yuan ($2.09 billion USD).
The company’s cash reserves reached 68.2 billion yuan ($9.88 billion USD) at the end of 2025 – a 46% increase from the previous year. This financial strength provides a solid foundation for investment in new models and expansion.
Premium Strategy Drives Performance
A key driver of Geely’s success has been its focus on higher-margin premium vehicles, particularly through the Zeekr brand. The Zeekr 9X model, with an estimated 40% profit margin, significantly boosted the company’s gross margin to 16.9% in the fourth quarter of 2025.
The recently launched Zeekr 8X has already secured over 30,000 pre-orders, indicating strong consumer interest in Geely’s premium offerings.
Ambitious Sales Targets
Geely has officially set a global sales target of 3.45 million vehicles for 2026. However, internal targets are reportedly higher, prioritizing domestic market dominance. The company aims to surpass BYD’s 2025 domestic sales of approximately 3.55 million vehicles.
To achieve this, Geely plans to expand its international dealer network to over 1,300 locations and leverage synergies with other brands under Geely Holding Group, including Volvo, Lotus, and Smart.
International Expansion and Charging Infrastructure
Geely’s international ambitions include exporting 640,000 units in 2026, with internal goals reaching 750,000. Key models like the Galaxy E5 and Starship 7 will be introduced to global markets, while Lynk & Co models (08, 01, and Z20) will accelerate their European rollout using Volvo’s established distribution network. The Zeekr 7X is scheduled for a South Korean launch in the first half of 2026.
To support electric vehicle adoption, Geely’s Haohang Energy subsidiary plans to deploy over 50,000 megawatt fast-charging stations within the next five years, with upcoming models like the Zeekr 001 supporting peak charging powers of up to 1500kW.
Context: The Race for Dominance
The automotive market in China is highly competitive, with BYD currently holding the top position. However, Geely’s strong financial performance, aggressive expansion strategy, and focus on premium models position it as a serious contender. The competition between these two automakers will likely drive innovation and potentially reshape the Chinese automotive landscape.
Geely’s success hinges on executing its expansion plans effectively and maintaining its momentum in the premium segment. If the company delivers on its internal targets, it could indeed surpass BYD as China’s leading automaker by 2026.
