Chinese EV carmaker poised to overtake iconic UK brand as sales in Britain skyrocket

Chinese carmaker BYD is poised to overtake the iconic British brand Vauxhall as sales in the UK skyrocket. BYD sold 11,271 cars in Britain in September, rising from 1,150 a year earlier, new data shows.

The Chinese carmaker's figure compares to 12,120 cars sold last month by Vauxhall, which is one of the oldest car manufacturers in the UK, dating back to 1857. It is now owned by multinational, Stellantis. BYD's sales pace could see it overtake Vauxhall.

Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show 5,373 sales of BYD's Seal U ahead of Hyundai Tucson (5,348), MG HS (5,173) and Volkswagen Golf (5,147).

BYD's Seal U wasn't far behind Vauxhall's Corsa, which sold 5,841 in September, according to the SMMT's figures.

Critics claim BYD has benefited from state subsidies from China while experts have said the brand is becoming increasingly popular thanks to its comparatively low price tag and technological features.

According to the Financial Times, Britain is BYD's biggest international market, despite its being excluded from the UK Government's grants scheme for electric cars.

Morningstar's latest European Autos Observer report said in September that China presents the largest threat to Europe's auto sector.

The European Union has slapped trade tariffs on imported Chinese cars while the UK hasn't. Chinese automotive brands have so far captured just 1% of the European auto market, but Morningstar forecasts demand could grow toward 20% by 2030.

More than half (50.8%) of all new vehicles registered during the 75-plate month were electrified, SMMT figures show. Britain's new car market rose by 13.7% in September, reaching 312,891 registrations.

SMMT Chief Executive, Mike Hawes, said electric vehicles are now powering market growth after what he said was a sluggish summer. He added: "The electric car grant will help to break down one of the barriers holding back more drivers from making the switch."

Mr Hawes said unlocking infrastructure investment and driving down energy costs would be crucial to the success of the industry and green goals.