The newest car brands: who’s arrived, who’s next, and where they’re launching

Most of the newest car brands are EV-first startups or spin-offs launched since 2020, led by Xiaomi (Xiaomi Auto, 2024), BYD’s Yangwang and Fangchengbao (2023), NIO’s Onvo (2024), XPeng’s Mona (2024), Jiyue (Geely/Baidu, 2023), Togg (Turkey, 2023), Omoda and Jaecoo (Chery, 2023), Avatr (Changan/CATL/Huawei, 2022), and IM Motors and Rising Auto (SAIC, 2022). Below is a concise, up-to-date guide to the newest names, what they make, and their status.

How “new” is defined here

For clarity, this roundup focuses on consumer car brands that launched since 2020, plus a few late-2010s names that only began deliveries or global expansion recently. It also notes announced or revived marques that haven’t yet reached volume production but are on clear paths to market.

Newest brands launched in 2023–2024

These brands either launched in 2023–2024 or began delivering first models in this window, and they’re shaping the latest wave of EV-centric competition.

• Xiaomi (Xiaomi Auto) — China (2024): Consumer-electronics giant’s auto arm launched the SU7 sedan, with deliveries starting in China in 2024.
• Onvo (NIO sub-brand; Chinese name: 乐道) — China (2024): NIO’s more affordable brand; the Onvo L60 was unveiled in 2024 with deliveries slated to begin in late 2024 in China.
• Mona by XPeng — China (2024): XPeng’s cost-optimized, AI-forward sub-brand; the M03 compact EV debuted in 2024 for the Chinese market.
• Yangwang (BYD) — China (2023): BYD’s ultra-premium label; U8 hybrid off-roader deliveries began in 2023, U9 electric supercar followed in 2024 (China).
• Fangchengbao / Formula Leopard (BYD) — China (2023): Adventure/off-road brand; Bao 5 PHEV deliveries began in late 2023, with larger Bao 8 introduced in 2024.
• Jiyue (Geely/Baidu; English: Ji Yue) — China (2023): Software-centric EV brand; Jiyue 01 deliveries commenced in late 2023, with the 07 following in 2024.
• Luxeed (Huawei/Chery; Chinese: 智界) — China (2023): Co-developed EV brand; the S7 sedan launched late 2023 with expanded deliveries through 2024.
• Omoda and Jaecoo (Chery) — Global (2023): Two international-facing brands launched by Chery; Omoda 5 and Jaecoo J7 rolled out across Asia, Europe, Middle East, and Latin America through 2023–2024.
• Togg — Türkiye (2023): National EV brand; T10X deliveries began in 2023 in Türkiye, with European expansion on the roadmap.
• GAC Hyper — China (2023): Premium performance sub-brand under GAC Aion; Hyper GT and limited-run Hyper SSR began deliveries in 2023.
• Changan Qiyuan — China (2023): New-energy sub-brand (EVs/PHEVs) from Changan; A05 and other models launched from late 2023.
• Dongfeng Nammi — China (2023): Budget-friendly EV brand; the Nammi 01 was introduced for 2024 sales.

Taken together, these 2023–2024 entrants show where the market is hottest: China’s layered brand strategies, tech partnerships that prioritize software, and new national champions building domestic EV ecosystems.

Recently launched (2020–2022) brands now scaling

These brands launched just prior to 2023 but only recently ramped output, expanded globally, or added full lineups.

• Zeekr (Geely) — China (2021): Premium EV brand; 001 (2021), 009 (2022), X (2023), and 007 (2023) with expansion to Europe from 2023–2024.
• Avatr (Changan/CATL; Huawei tech partner) — China (2022): Avatr 11 deliveries began in 2022; Avatr 12 followed in 2023.
• Deepal / Shenlan (Changan) — China (2022): EV/PHEV brand; SL03 (2022), S7 (2023), and G318 (2024, rugged PHEV).
• IM Motors / Zhiji (SAIC/Alibaba/CATL) — China (brand 2020; deliveries 2022): L7 (2022), LS7 (2023), LS6 (2023).
• Rising Auto / Feifan (SAIC) — China (2021): Spun out from Roewe; R7 (2022) and subsequent models in 2023–2024.
• Voyah (Dongfeng) — China (2020): Premium NEV brand; Free (2021), Dreamer MPV (2022), and Zhuiguang sedan (2022/2023), with EU/Middle East expansion.
• Ineos Automotive — UK (deliveries 2022): New 4×4 brand; Grenadier (2022) and Quartermaster pickup (2023) in global markets.
• HiPhi (Human Horizons) — China (brand 2019; deliveries 2020–2023): HiPhi X, Z, and Y; operations were suspended in early 2024 amid restructuring, with limited service and recovery efforts thereafter.

These brands illustrate how the 2020–2022 cohort has matured: more models, broader export footprints, and growing emphasis on software and fast charging, alongside some volatility among smaller players.

Announced, revived, or pre-production brands to watch

Several high-profile names are gearing up for launches but haven’t yet reached full-scale deliveries; they signal what’s next through mid-decade.

• Scout Motors (Volkswagen Group) — US (revived 2022): Classic American off-road nameplate reborn as an EV brand; US factory under construction in South Carolina, with pickups/SUVs targeted for the second half of the decade.
• Afeela (Sony Honda Mobility) — Japan (announced 2023): Software-forward EVs co-developed by Sony and Honda; first sedan targeted for around 2026.
• Ceer (Saudi Arabia PIF/Foxconn, with BMW-licensed tech) — Saudi Arabia (announced 2022): National EV brand aiming to start production mid-decade.
• DeLorean (revival attempt) — US (announced 2022): Alpha5 concept revealed; as of late 2024, no confirmed mass-production timeline.

While these names aren’t in customer driveways at scale yet, their backing and product plans make them credible signals of where the next wave of badges will emerge.

Context: Why so many new car brands now

Electrification, maturing battery supply chains, and software-defined vehicles have lowered barriers to launching new marques—especially in China, where modular platforms and supplier ecosystems enable rapid brand proliferation. Tech firms entering autos (e.g., Xiaomi, Sony) accelerate this shift, while legacy automakers carve out sub-brands to target specific price bands and buyer profiles.

How to evaluate a newcomer

When assessing a new brand, consider funding and partnerships (battery suppliers, software/ADAS partners), charging ecosystem, aftersales/service footprint, and model launch cadence. Early production quality and OTA update reliability are strong leading indicators of long-term viability.

Summary

The newest car brands are dominated by EV-focused entrants and spin-offs launched since 2020, with 2023–2024 bringing high-profile debuts such as Xiaomi Auto, BYD’s Yangwang and Fangchengbao, NIO’s Onvo, XPeng’s Mona, Jiyue, Luxeed, Omoda/Jaecoo, Togg, GAC Hyper, Changan Qiyuan, and Dongfeng Nammi. Slightly earlier launches like Zeekr, Avatr, Deepal, IM Motors, Rising Auto, Voyah, and Ineos have scaled up recently, while announced players including Scout Motors, Afeela, and Ceer signal the next wave. Most are software-led, fast-charging EV brands, reflecting how electrification and tech partnerships are redrawing the industry’s badge map.

Which is the newest car brand?

There is no single “newest” car brand because new brands are constantly emerging; however, some of the youngest and most recent additions to the automotive market include Rivian and Polestar, which are EV manufacturers that started their commercial production around 2021 and 2022, respectively, and have been introducing new models, such as the Rivian R1T and the Polestar 5. Other notable recent brands are Acura and Lotus, which have been active in the market for the past few years, according to a Motor1.com article. 
Recent Brands and Models

• Rivian: Opens in new tabEstablished in 2009, the electric vehicle manufacturer started delivering its R1T pickup truck in late 2021. Its R1S SUV is also available. 
• Polestar: Opens in new tabThis brand’s focus is on high-performance luxury EVs, and their Polestar 5 is set to debut as a high-performance grand tourer. 
• Acura: Opens in new tabThis Japanese luxury brand has benefited from the introduction of new models like the latest generation of the MDX and the all-electric ZDX. 
• Lotus: Opens in new tabA relatively young brand, Lotus currently offers four models, including the Eletre and Emira. 

Future Prospects

• Stelato: A new brand from China that launched a new luxury electric sedan in 2024, which has been positioned in the market by some as a competitor to Tesla. 
• Kia: The brand will be introducing the EV4, an electric car that is expected to offer good range and unique styling at a value price. 
• Acura: This brand is expected to launch new EV models, further expanding its electric offerings in the luxury segment. 

What are the newest American car brands?

Newer car brands entering the US market include American EV startups like Rivian and Lucid, the revived Scout Motors, and VinFast, a Vietnamese automaker that began selling cars in the US in 2023. Additionally, Afeela, a joint venture between Sony and Honda, is expected to begin accepting orders in 2025 for its tech-focused EV. 
Here’s a closer look at some of the newest brands and their offerings:

• Rivian: An American EV company focused on electric trucks and SUVs, known for features like the large under-seat storage and optional pull-out kitchen. 
• Lucid Motors: Founded in 2007, this California-based company produces luxury electric vehicles, with the Lucid Air receiving praise for its range and performance. 
• Scout Motors: A revival of the historic International Harvester Scout brand, this company is developing new electric SUVs and pickup trucks. 
• VinFast: A Vietnamese electric car company that entered the US market with its VF 8 SUV and is accelerating vehicle production with support from its parent conglomerate. 
• Afeela: This joint venture between Sony and Honda aims to produce a high-tech, electric sedan, potentially controllable with a PlayStation controller. 
• Canoo: Another California-based EV startup that has unveiled its unique electric vehicles designed for the future of transportation. 
• Faraday Future: A US-based EV company that has faced challenges and has a complex ownership structure involving several institutional investors. 
• Mullen Technologies: A newer American company that has introduced its own lineup of electric vehicles, including the Mullen Mullen Mullen Mullen I-GO. 
• Fisker: A US-based electric car company focused on luxury EVs, with vehicles like the Ocean SUV. 

Other notable newcomers include: 

• Bollinger Motors: Known for its powerful, electric off-road vehicles.
• Meyers Manx: A company giving new life to the classic Meyers Manx buggy, now offering an EV version.

What car brands are trending now?

The Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado and Toyota RAV4 were the best-selling models in 2024, with the Tesla Model Y and the Honda CR-V rounding out the top five. The most popular cars in the U.S. are a mix of trucks and SUVs.

What is the best brand new car?

There is no single “best” new car, but top-rated 2025 models include the Toyota Camry Hybrid for a well-rounded midsize car, the Honda Civic for a reliable and enjoyable compact car, the Subaru Forester and Crosstrek for dependable SUVs, and the Tesla Model Y for a high-performing EV. The best choice depends on your needs, such as budget, fuel type, and body style. 
Top Picks by Category 

• Sedans:
  • Midsize Car: The redesigned 2025 Toyota Camry is a strong, economical choice with updated features.
  • Compact Car: The Honda Civic offers a great balance of value, fuel efficiency, and driving enjoyment.
  • Small Car: The Nissan Sentra provides excellent value for an exceptional price.
• SUVs:
  • Subcompact SUV: The Subaru Crosstrek is versatile for both city and adventure.
  • Compact SUV: A redesigned Subaru Forester offers practicality and improved features.
  • Midsize SUV: The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a practical, fuel-efficient choice for families needing three rows of seating.
• Electric Vehicles:
  • EV: The Tesla Model Y delivers long driving range, impressive performance, and access to the extensive Tesla Supercharger network.

How to Choose Your Best Car

• Consider your needs: Think about your budget, how you’ll use the car (daily commute, family, adventure), and what type of fuel you prefer (gas, hybrid, or electric). 
• Read reviews from reputable sources: Organizations like Consumer Reports, Kelley Blue Book, and U.S. News & World Report provide detailed analyses to help you make informed decisions. 
• Look at awards: Keep an eye on “best of” lists from automotive publications to see which models are consistently praised for quality and performance.