Did you know that over half of all pickups sold in China last month went overseas? That’s right. The pickup truck market in China is seeing a major shift, and it’s not just about domestic sales anymore.
According to the latest report from the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA), national pickup sales hit 62,000 units in June. That’s a whopping 29.1% increase year-on-year and a solid 2.8% bump from May. It’s the second-highest June figure we’ve seen in the last five years. In total, pickups sold in the first half of 2026 reached 343,000 units, marking an 11.9% increase compared to the same period last year.
But here’s where it gets interesting: exports are really leading the charge. Last month, China exported 38,000 pickup trucks, which is a staggering 44% jump from last June and a 6% increase from May. Cumulatively, exports for the first half of the year hit 188,000 units, up 34%. This export growth is no small feat, especially considering that overseas sales made up 55% of China’s pickup market in the first half of 2026.
| Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| June Pickup Sales | 62,000 units | +29.1% YoY |
| Cumulative Sales (H1 2026) | 343,000 units | +11.9% YoY |
| June Exports | 38,000 units | +44% YoY |
| NEV Pickup Sales (June) | 9,000 units | +18% YoY |
| BYD Pickup Exports (H1 2026) | 20,037 units | -25.8% YoY |
This trend is not just a numbers game; it reflects a broader shift in consumer preference and market dynamics. The new energy vehicle (NEV) pickup segment is also growing, albeit at a slower rate, with about 9,000 units sold in June. That’s an 18% increase year-on-year, but it’s down 2% from May. In the first half of 2026, NEV pickups sold totaled 45,000 units, marking an 8% increase.
Looking at the players, BYD exported 4,000 pickups in June, which is a modest 6.9% increase year-on-year. Total exports for the first half of the year stand at just over 20,000 units, but that’s a significant drop of 25.8%. On the other hand, Geely’s Radar brand is on a roll, selling 2,600 units in June, a whopping 48.9% increase year-on-year.
Great Wall Motor remains the king of pickups in China, shifting 14,012 units in June, albeit with a slight dip of 3.9% for the first half at 92,512 units. But let’s not overlook the impressive figures from other brands like SAIC Maxus, Zhengzhou Nissan, Changan, and JAC Motors, each of which saw year-on-year growth of over 40% in June.
So, what does this mean for buyers? If you’re considering a pickup, now is a great time with so many choices on the market. But if you’re looking at NEVs, consider whether the slightly slower growth might affect your options down the line. And with exports driving much of the growth, stay tuned to see how these brands adapt their offerings to appeal to both domestic and international markets.
In short, the Chinese pickup market is alive and kicking, with exports leading the charge and a diverse range of options for consumers. Whether you’re in the market for a traditional pickup or an NEV, there’s a lot to keep an eye on.
