He predicts somewhat crazily that by the end of the decade BYD will sell 1 million vehicles a year, including newly developed electric cars, and become the leading auto manufacturer in China.

FORBES: Thanks, Now Move Over

The SUV boom is a detour from Beijing's automotive master plan for China to become a leader in electric cars.

NPR: China's Struggling Automakers Jump On SUV Boom

Moreover, Tesla is not likely to benefit from favorable government policies in China because, for the most part, they are reserved for electric cars manufactured in the country.

FORBES: Will The Chinese Buy A Tesla?