China's electric and hybrid vehicle sales rose just 7.5 per cent in August, marking the weakest pace in 18 months as the government moves to curb price wars, reported Reuters.

EV and hybrid sales outpaced petrol cars for the sixth consecutive month, but growth slowed from 12 per cent in July, according to China Passenger Car Association data.

The August figure was the smallest gain since February 2024, when sales declined 11.6 per cent due to shifting Chinese New Year holiday timings.

Overall car sales reached 2.02 million units last month, up 4.9 per cent year-on-year, the slowest growth in seven months.

CPCA secretary-general Cui Dongshu said car sales will likely slow further in the fourth quarter, citing government efforts to reduce excessive competition.