Chinese carmaker BYD has emerged as the fastest-growing electric vehicle (EV) brand in the United Kingdom, reporting an 880% year-on-year increase in sales last month.
The company sold 11,271 cars in September, bringing its 2025 total to more than 35,000 units.
This milestone has made the UK its largest market outside China.
BYD now holds a 2.2% market share in the country’s EV segment, marking a turning point for China’s biggest car exporter as it deepens its foothold in Europe’s competitive auto industry.
Why is BYD capturing market share in the UK
BYD’s rise in the UK is closely tied to its pricing strategy and growing local footprint.
Originally a mobile phone manufacturer, the company has leveraged its experience in battery technology to offer more affordable EVs compared to Western rivals.
Its compact Dolphin model starts at just over £26,000 ($34,913), significantly below Tesla’s Model 3 at around £40,000.
Models such as the hybrid SEAL U DM-i and the fully electric SEALION 7 have seen strong demand among British drivers.
BYD has also invested in local infrastructure, opening a new battery facility last month to service electric buses.
This move not only supports the company’s expansion but also aligns with the UK’s broader green transport push.
UK EV sales surge after new incentive scheme
The company’s success coincides with a wider surge in British EV sales.
September saw a sharp 29.1% rise in battery electric vehicle registrations, with 72,779 cars sold compared to the same month last year, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
The growth followed the government’s decision in July to reintroduce an electric car grant aimed at making EVs more affordable.
However, the policy excluded Chinese brands such as BYD from direct incentives.
Despite this, BYD’s strong performance indicates that consumers are drawn to its lower price points and expanding dealership network, helping the brand gain traction even without government subsidies.
BYD gains ground across Europe amid Tesla slowdown
BYD’s progress in the UK reflects a broader trend across Europe.
As of August, its regional sales were up more than 200% year-on-year, surpassing Tesla, whose deliveries slumped by over 36%, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA).
While BYD’s domestic growth has slowed—its overall deliveries in 2025 dropped nearly 6% year-on-year—the company continues to gain international market share.
Europe has become a strategic focus as BYD diversifies beyond China, and its aggressive expansion into the UK highlights the continent’s growing importance in its global strategy.
Market challenges remain despite international growth
Even with its expanding footprint, BYD faces challenges.
The company recently reported its first year-on-year decline in total global deliveries, raising concerns about potential demand saturation in China.
However, the company’s steady growth in the UK and Europe may help offset this domestic slowdown.
As competition intensifies with established automakers accelerating EV production, BYD’s cost advantage and integrated supply chain could prove crucial in maintaining its momentum.
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