Chinese EV brands rise in popularity, ahead of UK’s 2030 ZEV mandate

  • As the UK continues its transition to zero-emission vehicles such as electric cars ahead of 2030, popularity and purchases from Chinese EV brands such as BYD and GWM is rising.
  • Chinese brands could account for 25% of the EV market by 2030 – equivalent to about 400,000 cars on the road, according to Auto Trader UK’s latest edition of its Road to 2030 report, which can be read in full here.
  • The popularity of such brands comes as the UK stands in contrast to the European Union, which is implementing tariffs against EVs made in China – but that hasn’t stopped Chinese EV brands from continuing to grow across Europe.

Chinese EV brands projected to take significant chunk of UK car market by 2030

Not only are purchases of Chinese electric cars rising, but Auto Trader has noticed a strong pick up in interest. In the research from its latest Road to 2030 report, it found that four in ten consumers are ‘considering’ buying a Chinese car in the future. Popularity came most strongly from the 17-34 age group, with 57% of those being attracted to Chinese brands due to innovation and affordability. That compared to a level of support of just 25%, for those over 55. This general interest is also reflected through its online car marketplace – with Chinese entrants accounting for 3.4% of all searches in 2024, increasing nearly threefold compared to a 1.3% share in 2023.

Ian Plummer, Commercial Director at Auto Trader, commented on the findings:

“Chinese brands are increasingly pivotal players in the UK’s electric transition. Their ability to offer affordable, high-quality electric vehicles, is winning over the younger drivers who will play a vital role in driving the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. But the rise of Chinese brands comes with challenges. Consumers’ trust in the quality and safety of these new entrants remains mixed, particularly among older buyers. To succeed, Chinese brands will need to focus on reassuring consumers through strong safety ratings, data security, expert reviews, and customer service that they are as good as the more trusted traditional manufacturers.

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The intense competition in China has closed the price gap between EVs and ICE, a trend we expect to see here soon. These new entrants are setting new standards in car design, technology, and production, forcing all brands to work harder to attract buyers. In the long term, this will lead to more sustainable and affordable EV production, essential for a successful transition and cleaner air. These new players have the products and confidence to challenge established brands, sharpening competition and benefiting consumers.”

Key Chinese EVs on the horizon for the UK

Key brands already selling in the country to fill this demand and popularity include BYD, GWM, Omoda, and Jaecoo, though there’s plenty more entrants set to come to the UK imminently or in the near future – both from the budget end to more premium offerings.

Leapmotor T03

Leapmotor’s sub-£16k offering will be one of the cheapest electric cars offered in the UK, with a starting price of £15,995 – allowing it to compete very closely with the £14,995 Dacia Spring, while offering a higher quoted range and peppier acceleration. Leapmotor’s Stellantis backing should make it an easier sell, too.

XPENG G6

Chinese, premium-oriented EV brand XPENG, which already sells its portfolio in several European countries, is coming to the UK this year – starting with the G6, a Tesla Model Y competitor expected to start below the £45,000 mark.

Skywell Q

Skywell already sells its fully-electric BE11 SUV in the UK, but the Skywell Q hatchback arriving later this year has the potential to be a hit amongst UK drivers – and will compete with not only EVs such as the Volkswagen ID.3, but other Chinese rivals such as the MG4 and BYD Dolphin. Expect it to be priced below £30,000.

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