KATHMANDU: Chinese automakers BYD and Geely, along with Germany’s Volkswagen Group, have been named the most innovative electric vehicle manufacturers globally, according to a new study.
The analysis was conducted by the Center of Automotive Management (CAM) at Germany’s University of Applied Sciences for Economics. The study evaluated electric vehicle makers based on three key factors: driving range, energy consumption, and charging performance.
According to the report, BYD, Geely, and Volkswagen achieved the best overall balance across these technical areas. CAM noted that innovation in the EV sector is increasingly focused on practical, real-world usability rather than experimental technology.
Geely was highlighted for continuous improvements in range and battery efficiency across brands such as Zeekr and Polestar. The company has introduced new battery systems and efficiency upgrades over multiple model generations.
BYD set benchmarks in charging performance and system integration. CAM pointed to BYD’s high-performance battery technology and the development of megawatt-level charging solutions as key contributors to its ranking.
Volkswagen Group scored strongly due to its large-scale industrial approach to electric mobility. The report cited improvements in range and efficiency across high-volume models, particularly within the ID. family of electric vehicles.
The study also showed a decline in Tesla’s ranking. After leading the innovation index consistently from 2016 to 2020, Tesla has now dropped to eighth place.
CAM noted that the rankings also reflect long-term growth potential. Manufacturers that maintain consistent innovation are seen as better positioned for sustainable success in the global EV market.
Project leader Dr. Stefan Bratzel stated that German automakers are rapidly closing the innovation gap with Chinese brands. He noted that German EV models now demonstrate strong innovation capacity and are technologically competitive with Chinese electric vehicles.
