Sales of zero-emission trucks and buses in China reached a historic high of more than 230,000 units in 2024, according to a new analysis by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT).

The sales boom, primarily recorded in the last quarter of 2024, was driven by a strong macroeconomic stimulus package released by the Chinese government in September. This surge surpassed the previous peak of 200,000 units registered in 2015–2016, which was underpinned by a government incentive program.

Battery electric technology dominated the zero-emission market for both medium and heavy trucks, accounting for 13% and 14%, respectively. In contrast, fuel cell trucks remained as a nascent technology, holding less than 1% market share in heavy trucks.

The heavy truck segment surged to nearly 21% market share in December, more than doubling its January levels. Similarly, the medium truck segment reached 22% in December, nearly tripling its January sales share.

Electric city bus sales already reached the full market penetration in China in 2023, achieving the highest electrification rate of all vehicle categories. As of 2024, battery electric, hybrid electric, and fuel-cell electric city buses accounted for almost 100% of the market. In the coach category, used for intercity transport, the market share of battery electric vehicles was 6% in 2024.

The zero-emission heavy truck market is rapidly consolidating as leading manufacturers successfully scale their operations to significant levels. The top five manufacturers (XCMG, SANY, FAW, Shacman, and Yutong) captured 61% of the market, approaching similar concentration levels as seen in the internal combustion engine segment (75%).

Battery swapping technology, whereby a depleted electric vehicle battery can be switched out for a fully charged replacement, gained popularity in 2024. Sales of swap-capable vehicles grew 94% from 2023, reaching 29,569 units. This progress is driven by both policy support and the growing demand for low-carbon transitions in industries such as mining, steel, and port logistics.