Affordable Chinese EVs winning over young drivers
Affordable Chinese EVs are proving increasingly popular among UK drivers, with four in 10 saying they would consider buying a Chinese car.
That percentage rises to 57% among drivers aged between 17 and 34.
According to research carried out by Auto Trader, Chinese brands like BYD, GWM and Omoda are gaining consumer trust with a combination of both technology and affordability.
It now predicts that by 2030, when the UK’s ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars comes into force, Chinese brands could make up almost 25% of the UK EV market. This would equate to about 400,000 Chinese-made electric vehicles on UK roads.
However, trust in Chinese brands falls to 25% among drivers over the age of 55, with data security and quality the top concerns for 41% and 43% of older drivers.
Chinese brands ‘pivotal’ in net zero ambition
Ian Plummer, Auto Trader’s commercial director, said: “Chinese brands are increasingly pivotal players in the UK’s electric transition. Their ability to offer affordable, high-quality electric vehicles, is winning over the younger drivers who will play a vital role in driving the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
“But the rise of Chinese brands comes with challenges. Consumers’ trust in the quality and safety of these new entrants remains mixed, particularly among older buyers. To succeed, Chinese brands will need to focus on reassuring consumers through strong safety ratings, data security, expert reviews, and customer service that they are as good as the more trusted traditional manufacturers.”
He concluded:
“These new entrants are setting new standards in car design, technology, and production, forcing all brands to work harder to attract buyers. In the long term, this will lead to more sustainable and affordable EV production, essential for a successful transition and cleaner air.”
