Chinese Car Brands in the UK: Why Dealers are Embracing the Change

Chinese car brands have been making waves in the UK market, and car dealers are taking notice. With the rise of brands like MG and BYD, consumers are starting to see Chinese cars as a viable option for their next vehicle purchase.

Franchise car dealer brand director Aaron Carter emphasized the importance of embracing Chinese car brands for the future of his business. He stated that staying with the same portfolio of legacy brands could lead to missed opportunities as the market landscape changes.

JATO Dynamics conducted research into the impact of Chinese car brands in the UK market, revealing that traditional brands like Vauxhall and Ford are feeling the effects of their growth. The UK has seen significant growth in the small and compact car segments, driven by the success of brands like MG.

Despite some negative perceptions of Chinese cars, JATO’s country general manager for Greater China, Bo Yu, emphasized the importance of building a positive brand image and earning consumer trust. He highlighted the progress made in the middle-sized car segment and the potential for continued growth in the industry.

Paul Hilton, JATO’s head of retail, pointed out that Chinese car growth in the UK is not solely driven by price, but also by the advanced EV technology offered by these brands.

DM Keith’s experience with BYD has shown the importance of providing top-notch aftersales services to meet customer expectations. Carter noted the shift in mindset towards prioritizing aftersales support and ensuring a positive customer experience beyond the initial sale.

As Chinese car brands continue to make their mark in the UK market, it’s clear that dealers need to adapt and evolve to meet the changing demands of consumers. Embracing these brands and investing in aftersales services will be key to staying competitive in the evolving automotive industry.