BAIC Group, the Chinese state-owned automaker, announced that it sold 133,000 vehicles in September, a 9.6% increase month-on-month, according to PCauto. Cumulative sales for the first three quarters reached 1.167 million units, with the company highlighting a 'dual leap' in both domestic and overseas markets.
Self-owned brands, including Arcfox, Beijing Off-Road, and Foton, sold nearly 100,000 units in September, up 17.1% from the previous month. In the January-September period, self-owned brand sales exceeded 808,000 units, a year-on-year increase of 11.7%, accounting for about 70% of the group's total sales. The company has launched over 20 new models this year, focusing on high-end segments such as the Arcfox Wendao V9, Stelato G9, and Beijing Off-Road Taitan 700.
Overseas expansion accelerates
Overseas sales reached 31,000 units in September, up 19.4% year-on-year, and cumulative exports for the first three quarters surpassed 274,000 units, a 27.2% increase. BAIC International has established a multi-brand overseas portfolio under the Stelato, Arcfox, and BAIC names, with operations in Saudi Arabia, Peru, Brazil, Panama, New Zealand, and Colombia. The company operates six global technology centers, 28 KD (knock-down) factories, and a sales and service network covering over 140 countries.
Foton, BAIC's commercial vehicle subsidiary, remains the top Chinese commercial vehicle exporter, with an improving export mix that includes more new-energy and high-end heavy trucks. At the IAA Transportation show in Hanover in September, Foton accelerated its push into European markets, outlining a 2030 strategy for internationalization and new-energy development.
Technology and brand building
BAIC is also advancing its technology stack. Its 'Yuanjing' intelligent system includes an AI cockpit, AI-assisted driving, and AI chassis, aiming to create an 'AI-driven third space.' The Arcfox Alpha S (L3 version) has begun large-scale pilot operations on multiple highways in Beijing, accumulating over 110,000 kilometers of testing. The company also highlighted progress in solid-liquid hybrid battery technology for improved safety.
In 2026, BAIC has appeared at high-profile national and international events, including the Two Sessions, the Zhongguancun Forum, and the APEC Energy Ministers Meeting, and has become an official partner of China's national athletics team. The company's joint ventures, Beijing Benz and Beijing Hyundai, are accelerating local upgrades to support a diversified development pattern.
BAIC's September performance reflects a broader trend of structural optimization and brand elevation, as the company focuses on innovation and global expansion to meet its annual targets.
