Chinese-made electric vehicles have been growing in popularity among drivers with an interest in the cheaper brands, threatening to disrupt the progress of UK manufacturers.

It comes after reports revealed that Chinese brands now represent 5.3 per cent of market share in the first four months of this year, compared with just 1.3 per cent during the same period in 2024.

More than 1.4 million adverts viewed between January and April were for Chinese brands, marking a significant shift in consumer interest towards these manufacturers.

The stock of Chinese electric vehicles listed for sale on Auto Trader's website has increased dramatically, with more than 10 times the number available compared to a year ago. Between January and April, the marketplace listed over 3,300 Chinese-made EVs for sale.

Chinese electric vehicles have made up more than five per cent of UK market share

This surge follows a host of Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers entering the UK market and comes at a particularly crucial time when the UK looks to push forward with its Zero Emission Vehicle mandate.

Brands such as Jaecoo, Leapmotor, Skywell, Omoda and Xpeng have joined established names like BYD and GWM in offering their vehicles to British consumers.

BYD has emerged as the dominant Chinese brand in the UK market, accounting for around half of all advert views and stock on Auto Trader.

The company has been building its profile with British consumers, aided by its sponsorship of the Euro 2024 football tournament.

Chinese manufacturers were found to be gaining ground by offering competitive pricing, with Auto Trader noting they often undercut Western rivals due to their "affordable battery technology".

For example, the BYD Dolphin Surf is set to become one of the UK's cheapest electric cars when it launches later this year.

Auto Trader's research indicated that drivers have less brand loyalty when it comes to electric vehicles compared to petrol or diesel cars, which may be helping Chinese manufacturers gain a foothold.

Ian Plummer, commercial director at Auto Trader, said: "Our research shows a breakthrough for Chinese manufacturers in the UK market over the last 12 months."

Plummer also highlighted that global trade dynamics were making the UK an increasingly attractive market for Chinese automotive companies.

"Several brands are now motoring from a standing start and bigger names like BYD have embedded themselves in the public consciousness," he said.

He added: "Trade turbulence with the US and EU tariffs is also making the UK relatively more attractive as a market. Chinese electric vehicles are cutting-edge products, backed by affordable battery technology."

The rapid growth of Chinese manufacturers in the UK shows no signs of slowing, with Auto Trader's commercial director predicting that "there will be much more to come from Chinese carmakers".

The BYD Dolphin is expected to hit the UK market later this year

This trend represents a significant shift in the UK automotive landscape as Chinese brands continue to gain traction with British consumers.