Chinese Cars Surge in Popularity Across the UK Market

A surprising new trend is unfolding in the UK automotive landscape — one in every ten cars sold in June was made in China, according to the latest industry data.

Emerging Chinese brands like BYD, Jaecoo, and Omoda are rapidly gaining traction in the UK, reshaping a market long dominated by European, Japanese, and domestic players.

This sales surge has occurred in recent months, just as many G7 countries have moved to impose steep tariffs on Chinese vehicle imports.

In contrast, the UK’s decision not to adopt such protectionist measures has created a favorable environment for Chinese automakers to expand.

In June alone, 18,944 units from Chinese-owned brands — including MG and Polestar — were sold in the UK.

That figure represents 10% of total monthly sales, a jump from 6% during the same period last year, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Over the first half of 2025, more than 8% of all vehicles sold in the UK were Chinese-made — up from 5% in both 2023 and 2024.

While the majority of these were electric vehicles (EVs), internal combustion models were also part of the mix.

For comparison, a study by Jato Analytics showed that Chinese brands account for 4.3% of the overall market in the European Union, with just 1.6% in Germany and 2.7% in France.

Spain, however, showed stronger uptake, with 9.2% of car sales attributed to Chinese automakers.

Felipe Munoz, analyst at Jato, noted: “The UK’s decision not to impose tariffs presents a golden opportunity for Chinese manufacturers — especially given the country’s high demand for electric vehicles."

“MG, for example, is perceived almost like a domestic brand here. And unlike France or Germany, the UK doesn't have a large domestic auto industry that needs protecting.”

Despite this growth, some industry leaders are warning that the UK may struggle to remain competitive and might eventually need to consider quotas.

Chinese automakers and their UK partners have already begun acquiring local dealerships, cementing their presence further.