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Andy Harris
Motoring and Property Editor
@ytimesmotoring
1:00 AM 1st February 2025
cars

Will Your Next Car Be Chinese? There’s Plenty To Choose From

MG4
MG4
Chinese car brands are rapidly expanding in the UK, with a strong focus on electric vehicles (EVs). Here's an overview of the latest developments and models:

Brands Currently in the UK

MG Cyberster
MG Cyberster
1. MG Motor
Originally British, MG is now owned by China's SAIC Corporation.
Popular models include the MG4 EV, a highly rated electric hatchback, and other affordable EVs. MG has seen remarkable success, selling nearly 50,000 cars in the first eight months of 2023.
Cyberster is an electric roadster, a first, and is a car on my list for summer testing.

BYD Dolphin
BYD Dolphin
2. BYD (Build Your Dreams)

BYD launched in the UK in 2023 and has a growing network of over 30 dealerships.
Current models include the Atto 3 SUV, Dolphin hatchback, and Seal saloon, which rivals the Tesla Model. Regular readers will have seen my recent review of the hybrid Seal U DM-i. Read it here Another New Model From BYD – Seal U DM-i On Test

Interior quality impresses and we can expect Atto 2, Seagull and Sealion 7 in the coming months.

GM Ora Funky Cat
GM Ora Funky Cat
3. GWM Ora

Known for quirky designs, GWM Ora sells the 03 (was the Funky Cat), a compact EV competing with models like the Mini Electric. It has been recently updated. The original car left me rather underwhelmed. Expect soon the Ora O7, an electric saloon.

4. Omoda (by Chery)

Omoda launched its first UK model, the Omoda 5 SUV, in 2024. It is available in petrol and fully electric versions with a range of around 280 miles. I have yet to spend any meaningful time behind the wheel, but it’s on my list!

Skywell BE11
Skywell BE11
5. Skywell BE11

Skywell is a joint venture between electric bus maker Nanjing Golden

Dragon and Skyworth, an electronics company. On sale here now from £36,995, it has received mixed reviews. I have one coming soon for testing.

Brands Entering Soon

1. XPeng

XPeng will launch in early 2025 with its flagship model, the G6 SUV, featuring advanced tech like 800-volt fast charging. Other models like the G9 SUV and P7 saloon are expected later.

2. Zeekr (by Geely)

Zeekr plans to introduce the 001 hatchback and X SUV to the UK in 2025. These premium EVs offer long ranges of up to 385 miles.

3. Aiways

Aiways will debut in summer 2025 with its U5 SUV and U6 coupé-SUV, designed by a former Ferrari Enzo designer.

Leapmotor T03
Leapmotor T03
4. Leapmotor

In collaboration with Stellantis, Chinese company Leapmotor will launch its EV lineup by using Stellantis' European distribution network. The T03 is a compact EV designed for the city and will cost from just £15,995. The C10, a stylish electric SUV will cost from £36,500.

5. NIO

Known for battery-swapping technology, NIO is targeting a direct-to-consumer model with plans for up to 25 UK locations by 2025.

Jaecoo J7
Jaecoo J7
6. Jaecoo

Another sub-division of Chery International, the Jaecoo J7 SUV is launching in the UK about now, priced from £29,435. Petrol and PHEV variants on offer.

Key Trends

Chinese brands now account for about 10% of new EV sales in the UK, driven by competitive pricing, cutting-edge features, and long ranges.
Many Chinese manufacturers are focusing on traditional dealership networks rather than direct sales to enhance customer experience.
Safety and quality have significantly improved, addressing past criticisms.