# Cars from German auto brands are being shunned by many young Chinese buyers.

*aerospace · news · 2026-05-04 · PerthNow*

## Key points

- Volkswagen was overtaken by BYD in 2024 and Geely in 2025 in China's market rankings.
- German car brands' market share in China dropped from 26% in 2019 to 16% in 2025.
- Volkswagen closed its Dresden factory, the first factory closure in Germany in its history.
- Audi launched a China-specific 'AUDI' brand in 2023, targeting younger buyers with localized products.
- Chinese automakers like BYD and Geely are building factories in Europe to bypass EU tariffs.

**Companies:** Volkswagen, Porsche, Audi, BMW, BYD, Geely
**Countries:** China, Germany, Belgium

[Read the full story on PerthNow](https://www.perthnow.com.au/lifestyle/motoring/volkswagen-bmw-mercedes-benz-now-seen-as-brands-for-the-parents-by-chinese-buyers-c-22234900)

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