Chinese EVs Gain Ground in the UK as BYD Leads Market Growth

• BYD Seal sees 200% jump in interest, reports The Electric Car Scheme

• British drivers are turning to Chinese EVs thanks to lower prices and new launches

• The Electric Car Scheme spotlights top Chinese models for 2025

Interest in Chinese-made electric vehicles is soaring, with The Electric Car Scheme confirming that enquiries for the BYD Seal have climbed 200% year-on-year. This comes as BYD outperforms Tesla in European vehicle sales—a first for the emerging EV giant.

Over the past year, Chinese EVs have gained a significant foothold in the UK market. The Electric Car Scheme anticipates a further 300% rise in orders for BYD models in 2025, as their affordability and advanced features continue to attract buyers.

BYD’s standout models—Seal, Atto (from £358 per month), Dolphin (£298 per month), and the Sealion 7 (£478 per month)—are at the forefront of this trend. Several other Chinese manufacturers, including Ora, Jaecoo, Omoda, Haval and XPeng, are also expected to make an entrance onto UK roads this year.

As EV adoption accelerates across the UK, 2025 is expected to see record numbers of electric vehicles on the road, with Chinese models spearheading this growth. The Electric Car Scheme has identified three Chinese EVs that are set to lead the charge in the coming months.

BYD Seal 

This Model 3 rival has seen a huge increase in interest already and is set to be one of the most popular EVs in 2025 and beyond. The range of up to 354 miles and 0-60 acceleration in just 3.8 seconds makes this electric saloon car a popular choice for families, especially with a spacious 402 litre boot. 

Available for £386 per month with salary sacrifice this is a model UK drivers are likely to see more of on the roads this year.

MG4

One of the most popular EVs available through salary sacrifice, the MG4 combines performance and affordability. From £255 a month and with a top spec range of 435 miles, it makes a great first EV for anyone looking to make the jump to electric. The MG4 impresses first-time EV drivers with its dynamic design and spacious interior, providing 363 litres of boot space and comfortable seating for five passengers. 

Omoda E5

The first SUV on this list is likely to make an impact with some stylish design and its size. Inside, the Omoda E5 features a high-tech cabin with a dual-screen setup that includes a 12.3-inch central touchscreen and a digital driver display. Advanced connectivity features like wireless smartphone mirroring, over-the-air updates, and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies ensure convenience and safety. 

Available from £298 per month it is also one of the more affordable models around, which research from The Electric Car Scheme shows is the biggest consideration for 54% of potential EV drivers. 

The Electric Car Scheme CEO and Co-Founder Thom Groot commented:

“It is no surprise that Chinese EVs which are more affordable than rivals and equipped with modern and high spec technology are becoming more popular. It is true that Western models have taken a bit of a hit in terms of popularity over the past few months, but as much as anything else we see this as evidence of the rest of the pack catching up in terms of performance and quality. 

“We know that affordability is the biggest barrier to getting into an electric car for the majority of Brits so cheaper alternatives will be a welcome addition to the journey of reaching Net Zero and Zero Emission Vehicle goals. Whether it be a Seal, Dolphin or Sealion it is clear that these models are here to stay and play their part in the cars of the future.”