Chinese EV brands challenge established carmakers in "Latvia's e-Auto" contest
The jury of the "Latvia's e-Auto 2026/27" contest held in-depth test drives in late September with all 33 entered electric vehicles, including nine Chinese-brand models. Winners in three price categories will be announced at an award ceremony on October 20.
In late September, the jury of the "Latvia's e-Auto 2026/27" contest conducted in-depth test drives with all 33 electric vehicle models entered this year. Over two days, the jury evaluated the cars across three price categories, paying particular attention to whether nine models from Chinese brands could outperform manufacturers already well established in Latvia.
Competition in Latvia's EV market itself is also intensifying. In the first eight months of this year, 1,414 new electric vehicles were registered, up 36% compared with the same period last year. Chinese manufacturers now account for a quarter of these registrations, up from 19.3% a year earlier. By registration numbers, BYD ranks second behind Toyota, ahead of Volkswagen, Škoda and BMW. Interest in EVs is being driven both by state support through the EKII program and by the potential to cut fuel costs.
This year's contest has a record number of entries, with Tesla, Zeekr and Omoda participating for the first time. Chinese manufacturers already proved themselves last year, when the BYD Sealion 7 won the category up to €60,000 and the BYD Atto 2 took third place among more affordable EVs. This year they are aiming for success in the budget and mid-price categories.
Three price categories
The budget category features ten models with starting prices from €21,990 to €33,810, including Chinese brands BYD, MG and Omoda alongside the most affordable models from Volkswagen, CUPRA, Nissan, Renault, Kia and Ford. The mid-price category has the most entries — 17 models priced from €35,900 to €59,900, including six Chinese-brand models. In the top category, above €60,000, six models from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo and Lexus compete, priced from €60,834 to €75,020.
Contest organizer Roberts Jansons notes that newcomers are challenging traditional brands by including extensive equipment even in base versions, with quality now high among both European and Chinese manufacturers. However, he adds that European brands still lead in driving dynamics, while the picture can be reversed when it comes to battery technology. Winners and key conclusions from the contest will be presented at the award ceremony on October 20.
