Chinese Automakers BYD and Chery Capture Significant Market Share in the UK

Chinese automotive brands are gaining traction in the UK market, with BYD and Chery leading the charge in sales in September. The latest data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reveals a significant increase in registrations for these companies, underscoring a transformative shift in the UK automotive sector.

BYD Sees Unprecedented Growth

In September, BYD achieved a remarkable milestone, registering 20,129 vehicles in the UK, a staggering 80% increase compared to the same month last year. This performance secured BYD a 5.76% share of the new car market, ranking them second among all manufacturers for the month. This is especially impressive considering BYD's entry into the UK market occurred just in 2023.

The company has quickly established a retail network, boasting 147 dealerships nationwide. BYD's strategic expansion includes a diverse lineup of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, which has seen continual growth in 2026, providing UK consumers with more choices than ever.

The BYD ATTO 2, initially launched as an all-electric model, has also added a DM-i plug-in hybrid variant. This dual offering helped it become the second-best-selling model in BYD's UK portfolio. The SEAL U DM-i remains the brand's top seller, while the SEALION 7 is the leading all-electric vehicle for the month.

Looking ahead, BYD is gearing up for further growth, with the DOLPHIN G recently entering the supermini segment, garnering over 500 orders shortly after its launch. The forthcoming seven-seat Ti 7 SUV is already seeing strong pre-orders, and the SHARK pickup truck is attracting considerable attention as the brand explores new vehicle sectors.

Chery Group's Impressive Market Presence

Chery International UK has also reported impressive numbers, with a total of 32,823 vehicles registered across its four brands—OMODA, JAECOO, CHERY, and LEPAS—marking a 171% increase from the previous year when they recorded 12,099 registrations in September. This achievement granted Chery a 9.36% market share, making it the third-largest automotive group in September.

JAECOO was the standout performer, contributing 15,055 registrations, with the JAECOO 7 alone accounting for 10,813 units, thereby topping the sales charts as the UK’s best-selling new car for the month. Remarkably, JAECOO 7's year-to-date registrations reached 39,473, securing its position as one of the UK's top-selling vehicles in 2026.

Collectively, OMODA and JAECOO accounted for 22,296 registrations, translating to a 6.37% market share, while CHERY added another 9,788 units, reflecting a 2.79% share. LEPAS began its UK sales with 739 registrations. Overall, Chery's year-to-date figures show 124,365 vehicles, which equates to 7.15% of the new-car market—a 269% increase from last year.

Diversification Beyond Electric Vehicles

The swift progress made by BYD and Chery indicates that their success in Europe isn't confined to electric vehicles alone. BYD’s strategy incorporates both battery-electric and plug-in hybrid models, while Chery offers a portfolio that includes petrol, hybrid, and fully electric options. This diversified approach may cater to a broad range of buyer needs, considering varying concerns about price, mileage, charging infrastructure, and vehicle types.

For those hesitant to fully transition to electric cars, BYD’s DM-i plug-in hybrids present a viable solution, allowing short trips on electric power while maintaining the capability for longer journeys. Meanwhile, the growing variety of Chinese electric vehicle models intensifies competition with long-established automakers from Europe, Japan, Korea, and America.

Future Investments in the UK

Chery is not just relying on sales growth; the company aims to solidify its foothold in the UK through strategic investments. Recently, Chery Automobile unveiled plans to establish a Research and Development Centre of Excellence at the UTAC Millbrook proving ground in Bedfordshire, expected to open later in 2026. This facility is intended to enhance chassis dynamics and calibrate Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) specifically for the UK market.

Having local development resources allows Chery to better align its offerings with British customers' expectations and driving conditions as it increases its market presence. In addition, the company is growing its retail network and bolstering customer support, incorporating an enhanced seven-year/100,000-mile manufacturer warranty and strengthened partnerships through the RAC.

Significant Market Transformation

The September sales figures from BYD and Chery highlight rapid changes in the UK automotive sector. BYD's impressive 20,129 registrations and Chery's collective 32,823 registrations reflect a significant competitive landscape, where both brands now vie for substantial market presence against long-standing automotive manufacturers.

Their growth strategy hinges on aggressive product line extensions, competitive pricing, hybrid and electric powertrain options, expanding dealer networks, and enhanced brand recognition. Looking to the future, BYD and Chery's upcoming models, such as the DOLPHIN G, Ti 7, OMODA, and JAECOO lines, will further enrich the choices available to British consumers and amplify pressure on traditional carmakers to adapt.