Chinese Cars Reach 10% UK Market Share in June

Chinese car manufacturers are significantly increasing their presence in the UK automotive market, with one in 10 cars sold in June 2025 being made in China, marking a 40% rise from the previous year. Popular Chinese brands such as BYD, Polestar, and Omoda are gaining traction due to their affordability, quality, and innovation, especially in electric vehicles (EVs). This surge occurs amid ongoing tariff wars in the West and job losses at traditional UK manufacturers like Nissan, with Chinese firms also expanding by acquiring showrooms and planning factories in Europe to circumvent tariffs. The UK's automotive industry faces pressure from this competition as well as rapid EV adoption and evolving battery production, prompting concerns that traditional manufacturers may need to merge, share technology, or downsize. Industry experts highlight that Chinese manufacturers produce better, cheaper, and more innovative vehicles across all market segments, potentially forcing the UK to consider measures like quotas or encourage local manufacturing by Chinese firms. Meanwhile, Chinese automakers are also expanding into Central Europe, aligning with global trends toward sustainable and electric mobility.