LHD vs RHD: Which Chinese Vehicles Fit Your Market?

One of the first questions buyers ask is whether Chinese vehicles match their local steering configuration. Here is what you need to know.

China Domestic Market: LHD

The vast majority of vehicles sold in China are Left-Hand Drive (LHD), as China drives on the right side of the road. This means most Chinese export vehicles are LHD by default.

Markets That Need LHD

Most of the world drives on the right and needs LHD vehicles:

• Middle East (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iraq, etc.)

• Africa (Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt, etc.)

• Europe, Americas, Central Asia

• Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Philippines, etc.)

Markets That Need RHD

These markets drive on the left and require RHD:

• United Kingdom, Ireland

• Japan, Australia, New Zealand

• India, Pakistan, Bangladesh

• South Africa, Kenya (some), Malaysia, Thailand

• Caribbean nations

RHD Options from China

While most Chinese domestic vehicles are LHD, several manufacturers produce RHD versions for export:

• Great Wall / Haval (selected models)

• Chery (selected models)

• BYD (limited RHD production)

• SAIC / MG (strong RHD lineup)

What to Check Before Ordering

1. Confirm your country's steering requirement

2. Ask the exporter if the specific model is available in your configuration

3. Verify that the vehicle meets local homologation standards

4. Check if modifications are needed for compliance

Contact us to confirm steering availability for your target model and market.