For international dealers, the most effective strategy is to source from Chinese auto brands like BYD, Chery, and Geely that offer strong, parallel lineups of both popular EVs and reliable gasoline vehicles.
Choosing a brand with a solid footing in both New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) and traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) models allows you to build brand recognition and streamline your after-sales support. Instead of marketing disparate brands, you can present a cohesive lineup to customers, catering to everyone from early EV adopters to buyers who still prefer gasoline SUVs and sedans.
Top Brands for a Mixed EV & ICE Portfolio
When building a mixed inventory, focus on manufacturers known for quality and export readiness across both powertrain types. This ensures better availability of spare parts and technical support for your dealership.
BYD: While famous for leading the EV revolution with models like the Seal, Dolphin, and Atto 3 (Yuan Plus), BYD also produces highly efficient plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) like the Song Plus DM-i and Qin Plus DM-i. These PHEVs act as a perfect bridge for markets transitioning to electric, offering customers the best of both worlds.
Chery: A powerhouse in the gasoline SUV segment with its globally popular Tiggo series (Tiggo 7 Pro, Tiggo 8 Pro Max). Chery has successfully expanded into the EV space with models like the eQ series and new sub-brands, making it an excellent one-stop shop for a dealer wanting to stock reliable, affordable SUVs alongside modern electric cars.
Geely: Geely offers a diverse portfolio through its various brands. You can source popular and stylish ICE models like the Coolray (Binyue) and Emgrand under the main Geely brand, while also accessing pure EVs from its Geometry or high-end Zeekr brands. This multi-brand strategy allows for targeted market segmentation.
How to Build Your Ideal Shipment
Creating the right mix requires balancing global trends with local realities. The best portfolio for a dealer in the Middle East will differ from one in Latin America.
Analyze Your Market: Consider your local fuel prices, government incentives for EVs, charging infrastructure availability, and customer preferences. Do buyers prioritize fuel efficiency, performance, or cargo space?
Select Complementary Models: Choose models that don't compete with each other. For example, a lineup could include a compact EV sedan (like the BYD Seal), a family-friendly gasoline SUV (like the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro), and a budget-friendly hatchback.
Consolidate Your Order: You don't have to limit your dealership to a single manufacturer. At Starvia Automotive, our Factory-Direct New Car Sourcing allows you to build a single shipment containing vehicles from multiple top-tier brands. We can help you procure a mix of Chery SUVs, BYD EVs, and Geely sedans in one consolidated order, simplifying your logistics and customs clearance process.