This is reported by The Guardian, citing electric vehicle market analyst Matthias Schmidt. According to his estimate, total sales of Chinese brands in the UK by the end of the year will exceed 200,000 vehicles. A few years ago, such models were perceived as niche, but today they have become a familiar part of the market.
The main contribution to growth is made by the brands MG, BYD, and Chery. MG maintains leading positions among Chinese brands and, by the end of 2025, sold over 70,000 vehicles, showing results at the level of the previous year. BYD, in turn, sharply increased its presence: brand sales grew from less than 9,000 cars in 2024 to more than 40,000 in 2025.
Other manufacturers also showed noticeable growth. Jaecoo sold over 20,000 vehicles, and Omoda approached this figure. Chery, Polestar, and Leapmotor also increased sales in the UK, although in smaller volumes compared to the leaders.
Against the backdrop of strengthening Chinese brands, the share of Japanese automakers in the UK market has decreased by almost one percentage point over the past twelve months. The decline is not sharp but reflects a pan-European trend.
The Guardian notes that sales of Chinese-made cars are growing throughout Europe, despite the introduction of increased duties. These measures were taken at the end of last year to protect European producers and concern electric vehicles produced in China. However, the duties do not apply to hybrid models and internal combustion engine vehicles.
The UK, being outside the European Union, has been more open to Chinese brands. The country lacks large-scale national auto manufacturers, which reduces the influence of the so-called "patriotic choice." As Matthias Schmidt pointed out, unlike Germany and France, where a significant part of the market is controlled by local brands, British buyers are less oriented towards brand origin when choosing a new car.
Source: The Guardian
