10 Chinese Car Brands in the UK (Existing & Upcoming)

Buying a car in the UK is changing fast, especially with the rise of EVs. However, most electric cars on the market are expensive, and the selection is really limited. That’s where Chinese car brands step in. Chinese electric car brands are shaking up the UK market.

These brands offer feature-packed EVs and hybrids at prices that make switching easier than ever. Brands like MG, BYD, and GWM Ora are already winning over British drivers, while newcomers like NIO and Xpeng gear up to hit UK roads.

If you’re searching for affordable, high-tech alternatives that don’t compromise on quality or innovation, check out these top 10 Chinese car brands in the UK. 

Why UK Consumers are Considering Chinese Cars?

Nearly 4 in 10 UK consumers say they would consider a Chinese car. By 2030, when the UK bans new petrol and diesel cars, Chinese brands could take up 25% of the EV market. That’s about 400,000 new cars on UK roads, according to the Road to 2030 report.

So, before we get started with the Chinese car brands, let’s see why car buyers in the UK are loving Chinese cars so much.

The main reason behind this is the fact that UK drivers are always looking for great value, especially when it comes to EVs. And as you would imagine, Chinese cars tick that box. They offer a strong mix of range, high-tech interiors, and bold designs at lower prices.

Second reason behind popularity of Chinese brands in the UK is the government policy. UK’s trade status remains tariff-free for Chinese vehicles, unlike the EU. With battery innovations and expanding service networks, China cars are becoming a smart, everyday choice.

5 Established Chinese Car Brands in the UK

The history of Chinese cars in the UK isn’t recent. There are several Chinese car brands in the UK that have already established themselves as market leaders. Which brands are those, let’s have a quick look:

1. MG Motors

Popular Models: MG3, MG ZS, MG HS, MG4 EV & MG ZS EV 

MG is the best-known Chinese car brand in the UK. Originally British, it’s now owned by SAIC, one of China’s largest automakers. MG offers a wide range of vehicles, including petrol, hybrid options, and EVs.

Models like the MG ZS EV and MG4 are especially popular for their price, design, and practicality. MG4 stands out with sharp looks and smooth driving. It also comes in a high-performance XPower version, delivering serious fun behind the wheel.

Moreover, MG’s success comes from more than just affordability. It offers generous features, decent driving range, and a 7-year warranty. This strong mix of value and reliability makes MG a serious competitor in the UK.

With growing popularity, you’ll see MGs in cities, towns, and driveways across the country. MG proves that Chinese brands can deliver both quality and everyday usability.

2. BYD

Popular Models: BYD Atto 2, BYD Atto 3, BYD Dolphin, BYD Seal & BYD Seal U

BYD is one of the largest electric car manufacturers in the world. In fact, it has sold more EVs globally than many well-known brands. It made its UK debut with the Atto 3, a compact electric SUV. Atto 3 is smart, stylish, and packed with features at a great price.

Soon after, BYD launched the Dolphin, a smaller EV that’s even more affordable. Both models offer impressive range, tech, and are also among the cheapest electric cars in the UK.

What sets BYD apart is its fast-growing UK presence. It already has over 60 dealerships across the country, with more on the way. BYD vehicles are easy to drive, comfortable, and competitive with popular rivals like the MG4.

Thanks to their value and design, BYD cars are already outselling some long-established names in the UK. Clearly, British drivers are starting to trust this new player on the electric scene.

3. GWM Ora and Haval (GWM)

Popular Models: Ora 3, Ora 7 & Haval Jolion Pro

GWM Ora is a bold and quirky brand within Great Wall Motors. It first entered the UK market with the Ora 03, which was called the Funky Cat at launch.

This small electric car offers retro-modern styling, clever tech, and a 193-mile driving range. With a 45.4 kWh battery, Ora 03 suits city and local driving perfectly. It’s positioned as an affordable and stylish alternative to the Cupra Born or Mini Electric.

Looking ahead, Ora plans to expand its lineup in the UK. Its next model, Ora 07, promises a longer 354-mile range and sleeker design.

Additionally, GWM also introduced another brand called Haval, starting with a hybrid SUV called the Jolion Pro. At around £24,000, it offers strong value for families. GWM’s growing range and pricing strategy make it a Chinese brand to watch in the UK.

4. Omoda  

Popular Models: Omoda 5, Omoda E5 & Omoda 9

Omoda is a stylish car brand under Chinese car giant Chery. Its name combines “oxygen” and “moda,” the Italian word for fashion, hinting at its bold design focus. Omoda launched in the UK with the Omoda 5, a petrol SUV priced around £25,000.

The brand also offers the Omoda E5, a fully electric version of Omoda 5, starting at £33,000. Both versions feature eye-catching looks, modern interiors, and smart infotainment systems. These models cater to drivers who want both tech and style.

In addition, Omoda plans to release more vehicles in the UK very soon. This includes hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and new electric models like the Omoda 3. That car will compete with the MG4 and the upcoming Kia EV3.

Thanks to its clever pricing and modern design, Omoda appeals to younger buyers. It’s clear the brand understands European tastes and is positioning itself to grow fast in the UK.

5. Jaecoo  

Popular Models: Jaecoo 7, Jaecoo 5 & Jaecoo SHS

Jaecoo is another brand from Chery mainly focusing on comfort, bold design, and everyday practicality. It entered the UK market with Jaecoo 7, a stylish family SUV, available with a petrol engine or a plug-in hybrid version called SHS.

Jaecoo 7 starts at around £30,000 and offers good value for a mid-sized SUV. It competes directly with the Kia Sportage and Nissan Qashqai. The brand is already gaining strong traction in the UK. Over 4000 Jaecoo 7 SHS were sold in the first quarter of this year.

Jaecoo aims to open 130 dealerships across the UK by 2025. With more models on the way and a fast-growing network, Jaecoo is clearly serious about the UK market. It’s yet another Chinese brand quickly making a name for itself on British roads.

5 Chinese Car Brands Coming Soon in the UK

Now, let’s talk about some new Chinese car brands that have just launched or are going to be launched soon in the UK:

1. Aion

Popular Models: Aion UT & Aion V

Aion is a fresh and fast-growing sub-brand of China’s GAC Group, known for bold styling and smart tech. The brand focuses on futuristic design and practical electric driving. It’s already well-received in China, and Europe is next.

Aion plans to launch in the UK with EVs designed for British drivers. The first expected model is the Aion UT, a small car built to rival the likes of highly reliable Renault 5. It is expected to offer a 60kWh battery and 134bhp electric motor, giving a range of around 267 miles.

Even with a decent range, the price is expected to land in the mid-to-high £20,000s, making it a good value for money. As British buyers look for stylish, smart, and affordable EVs, Aion could become a strong new option.

With the right pricing and dealer support, it might quickly find fans in the UK market.

2. Aiways 

Popular Models: U5 & U6

Aiways might be new to the UK, but it’s been making EVs in China since 2017. The name stands for “AI is on the way,” showing the brand’s focus on future tech. Aiways has tested its models in European countries like Germany and France and is now preparing to enter the UK.

The Aiways U5, its main car, is slightly smaller than a Tesla Model Y. U5 offers modern design, decent tech, and a range of around 250 miles. The U5 could start from about £45,000.

That places it in line with many rivals already on the UK’s market. A sportier version, U6 coupe-SUV, may also follow soon after.

With production already strong in China, Aiways could scale up quickly if it finds success in the UK. As more drivers want stylish and roomy EVs, Aiways has real potential here in the UK.

3. Deepal 

Popular Models: S05, S07 & SL03

Deepal is a rising EV brand under Changan Auto, one of China’s oldest carmakers. It’s now planning to bring its first car, the Deepal G318 SUV, to the UK.

This SUV is expected to use a range-extender setup with a petrol engine acting as a generator. It’s similar to Nissan’s ePower system in the Qashqai. So, you get the benefits of electric drive with longer range.

Deepal also plans to introduce more models like the S05 and S07 in the UK. These models have been designed in Italy and engineered in the UK. The S07, for example, will compete with the Tesla Model Y but is expected to come in at a much lower price.

With sleek design, extended range, and smart interiors, Deepal is clearly targeting tech-savvy UK buyers. It’s shaping up to be an exciting new option for families and EV fans alike.

4. Denza 

Popular Models: ZN GT and D9

Denza is a premium electric brand created by BYD and Mercedes-Benz. It combines German design quality with Chinese electric tech. Denza will enter the UK with two flagship models: the Z9 GT and the D9 MPV.

Z9 GT is a sporty electric shooting brake, styled by a former Audi designer. It brings luxury design and powerful performance together. The second model, D9, is a high-end seven-seater MPV. It offers comfort and style, similar to the Lexus LM or Toyota Alphard.

Denza focuses on premium EVs that are spacious, elegant, and future-ready. If priced right, these models could shake up the luxury EV space. UK buyers who want a tech-rich, refined ride will have a new name to watch in Denza.

5. Exeed

Popular Models: RX, LX, Exlantix E03 & Exlantix E0Y

Exeed is another brand from Chery, but it’s aimed at more premium buyers. Unlike Chery’s other brands, Exeed competes with the likes of BMW and Audi. It is already selling will in markets such as Saudi Arabia and Chile.

For the UK, Exeed is expected to launch its two all-electric models: the Exlantix E03 saloon and the Exlantix E0Y SUV. E03 will rival the BMW i5, while the larger E0Y targets the buyers who are most likely to purchase an Audi Q8 e-tron.

These models will feature strong design, high-end interiors, and powerful EV systems. Some versions may also come as plug-in hybrids. Exeed is clearly focused on drivers who want luxury, style, and advanced technology.

With a smart UK launch strategy, Exeed might soon be a serious competitor in the British premium EV market.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many Chinese car brands are there in the UK?

Right now, there are 5 Chinese car brands already selling in the UK. These include MG, BYD, GWM Ora, Omoda, and Jaecoo. MG is the most well-known and has been around for years. BYD and GWM Ora are also gaining popularity, especially in the electric car space. 

Omoda and Jaecoo though new, are already making an impression. In the next year or two, more brands like Aiways, Aion, and Deepal are expected to enter the UK market. So, the number is growing fast, and buyers will have more choices than ever.

2. Are there any Chinese electric car brands?

Several Chinese brands focus mainly on electric vehicles. For instance, BYD, one of the world’s largest EV maker, sells the Atto 3 and Dolphin, which are capable electric cars. Similarly, MG offers models like the MG4 EV and MG ZS EV.

GWM Ora has the Ora 03, known for its unique style and compact size. Moreover, brands like Aiways, Aion, and Deepal also plan to launch electric models in the UK soon.

3. Are Chinese car brands reliable?

Yes, many Chinese brands are improving fast when it comes to reliability. BYD and GWM Ora have received good reviews for solid build quality and high-tech features. Models like MG4 and BYD Atto 3 are especially praised for reliable performance. 

Most Chinese EVs often come with strong warranties and use advanced battery tech. That makes them a dependable option for everyday driving.

4. Do Chinese car brands offer value for money?

Yes, Chinese car brands are known for offering great features at a lower price. For example, the Leapmotor T03 starts at around £16,000, and the MG4 EV at £26,995.

These prices undercut most European rivals by thousands of pounds. Yet, you still get modern tech, great range, and stylish interiors. 

Chinese brands are also generous with warranties and safety features. Plus, many of these cars qualify for UK EV incentives, making them even more affordable. For budget-conscious buyers, the value for money offered by Chinese cars is hard to beat.

5. How do Chinese EVs compare to Tesla or BMW?

Chinese EVs compete surprisingly well with big names like Tesla and BMW. Chinese EVs are quickly closing the gap in both quality and tech. Brands like BYD and MG offer good range, advanced safety tech, and sleek design.

While Tesla may lead in performance and software, Chinese cars often win on price. Similarly, BMW offers luxury, no doubt, but some Chinese EVs now match that level of comfort.

You may not get the same level of premium comfort, but you’ll save thousands. For many buyers, the slight trade-off is worth the cost savings. 

Final Thoughts: Chinese Car Brands in the UK

Chinese car brands are no longer just a rising trend. Chinese brands, especially the Chinese electric car brands, are here to stay in the UK. As the UK moves quickly toward an all-electric future, Chinese car brands are stepping up.

They’re offering smart, stylish, and affordable electric vehicles that are catching more attention every day. Whether it’s MG, BYD, or exciting newcomers like Omoda and Aiways, UK drivers now have more choice than ever.

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