Chinese EV Brands Hit 100,000 UK Sales in Under 2 Years

A Chinese automotive newcomer is rewriting the rulebook for how fast a car brand can succeed in Britain.

Omoda and Jaecoo, sister brands backed by Chinese giant Chery, have sold more than 100,000 vehicles since launching in the UK in August 2024. The milestone puts them ahead of many established brands and gives them nearly 6% of Britain's entire new car market.

The Jaecoo 7, which looks similar to a Range Rover but costs far less, has been the breakout star. More than 53,000 have been registered since February 2025, making it one of Britain's 10 best-selling cars. Three quarters of buyers choose the plug-in hybrid version, showing strong demand for cleaner driving options.

The Omoda 5 added another 36,500 sales with its range of petrol, hybrid, and electric options. Notably, around 70% of both brands' sales went to regular drivers rather than fleet buyers, meaning everyday families are choosing these cars for their driveways.

The brands didn't just ship cars and hope for the best. They invested heavily in building 144 retail locations across the UK, including sites in most major cities. New parts hubs, customer service teams, and warranty programs came with them.

The Ripple Effect

The success reflects a bigger shift happening across Britain's roads. Drivers want affordable alternatives to expensive traditional brands, especially with fuel costs rising and environmental concerns growing. Chinese manufacturers are filling that gap with feature-packed cars at competitive prices.

The ripple extends beyond just car sales. Those 144 retail locations mean hundreds of new jobs in sales, service, and support roles across the country. Local communities benefit from the investment in facilities and the economic activity that follows.

The company plans to launch more models, including the Omoda 4 in 2027, and add more retail locations throughout 2026. They're even hosting a customer celebration day in September to thank the 100,000 owners who took a chance on the new brands.

CEO Gary Lan credits the success to focusing on what British customers actually want: exceptional value, modern technology, and reliable service. The foundation is built, and the momentum shows no signs of slowing.

More affordable electric and hybrid options means cleaner air for British communities and more choices for families looking to reduce their carbon footprint without breaking the bank.