Chinese EVs gain ground in Hungary's used car market

Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) are reshaping Hungary's used car market, offering affordability and modern technology. Once dominated by European and Japanese brands, the sector is now seeing rising demand for models from Chinese automakers BYD and MG.

Used EVs were rare in Hungary until recently. In 2024, a record 22,000 EVs were registered, including 13,500 second hand vehicles, according to industry data.

"Last year, there were 60 percent more EVs imported as used second hand cars from Europe," said Tibor Antaloczy, editor-in-chief of Villanyautosok.hu, a Hungarian EV news site.

Andras Horvath, an EV blogger who tests dozens of models each year, said affordability is a key driver. He told CGTN: "The numbers are getting better and better, but there are waves all the time. If the subsidies are cut, nobody wants to buy electric cars. If there is some subsidy, they want to buy electric cars."

One of the biggest winners in Hungary's used EV market is MG. The former British brand, now Chinese-owned, has seen its ZS and EHS models become bestsellers, with prices under $22,000.

BYD, another Chinese brand, is also surging in popularity. Searches for its ATTO 3, SEAL, and DOLPHIN models have quadrupled in the past year.

"Tesla still dominates, but the Chinese brands are catching up," said Mark Koralewsky of Hasznaltauto.hu, a leading used car platform. "The public interest in brands like BYD is rising."

However, challenges remain. While Hungary's EV adoption is growing, infrastructure struggles to keep pace. Charging stations are still limited, and the high price of new EVs discourages buyers.

"I think the biggest problem with electric cars is not the range, it's not the charging speed. It's the price," Horvath said.

Industry watchers hope this will change soon. BYD is constructing a factory in Hungary, expected to open ahead of schedule this year. The facility could bring down costs and increase the presence of Chinese-made EVs in the region.

"Once BYD starts producing here, people will see their cars everywhere, and that will change everything," said Koralewsky.

A few years ago, Chinese-made EVs were rare on Hungarian roads. Now, they are becoming a common sight. If the trend continues, Hungary's streets may soon reflect a new era in the automotive industry.