The global auto market is accelerating its shift to electric vehicles again, with battery electric vehicles maintaining double-digit growth while plug-in hybrids fall. Global plug-in vehicle registrations rose about 7 percent in July to roughly 1.8 million, with BEVs up 16 percent and PHEVs down 11 percent. Tesla’s Model Y stayed No. 1 by model despite a sales decline, while Chinese models filled most top ranks.

After test-driving more than 25 vehicles in China, a U.S. reporter singled out models they would want to buy, including Zeekr Mix, BYD Seagull, Xiaomi SU7 and YU7, Geely EX5 and Nio-backed Firefly. The assessment cited strong value across segments, from design and software to driving performance and interior packaging. The report said barriers still limit Chinese EVs in the United States, while overseas expansion is growing in markets such as Mexico.