China’s Hybrid EV Exports to UK Soar Despite Overall EV Decline
A London-based self-employed individual recently made headlines by switching from a European car brand to a Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, MG. ‘I initially considered purchasing a Tesla, but the price was too steep,’ he explained. ‘With the current economic climate, I opted for a more affordable alternative.’
This decision reflects a growing trend among Britons embracing Chinese car brands. Although Chinese EVs have faced significant challenges in the European Union, including tariffs as high as 45.3%, the UK imposes a standard 10% import tariff, similar to other non-EU competitors.
According to Chinese customs data, the UK was China’s second-largest EV export destination in the first quarter of this year and fifth-largest for hybrid electric vehicles. While total EV exports from China to the UK dropped by 32.6% year-on-year in the first quarter, plug-in hybrid vehicle exports surged nearly 600%. In March alone, China’s hybrid EV exports to the UK skyrocketed by 1,849% year-on-year to 3,898 units.
The trend indicates a shifting landscape in the UK’s automotive market, with Chinese hybrid vehicles gaining traction despite overall EV exports experiencing a decline.
