Think you know all the car brands in the UK? Think again 2025 will see a wave of new car manufacturers arriving, offering fresh competition to established names like Ford, Volkswagen, and Toyota. Many of these brands focus on electric vehicles (EVs), cutting-edge technology, and affordability. So, which names should you be watching out for?
The UK’s shift towards electric vehicles and sustainable transport is opening the door for new manufacturers. With government incentives and consumer demand increasing for greener, more affordable options, several overseas car brands, many already successful in their home countries, are now setting their sights on the UK market.
From budget-friendly EVs to tech-packed SUVs, here are the new manufacturers you should keep an eye on in 2025.
Leapmotor, a Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has officially launched in the UK. Their initial offerings include the compact T03 city car and the mid-size C10 SUV. The T03, priced at £15,995, offers a range of 165 miles, positioning it as an affordable alternative to the Fiat 500e. The C10, starting at £36,500, provides a 261-mile range, making it a direct competitor to models like the MG ZS EV.
Backed by automotive giant Stellantis, Leapmotor is aiming to establish 50 dealerships in the UK by the end of 2025, making it one of the most ambitious newcomers to watch.
Chinese sister brands Omoda and Jaecoo, under the umbrella of Chery Automobile, have officially entered the UK market. Omoda introduced the stylish Omoda 5 SUV, available in both petrol and electric variants, with the electric version known as the Omoda E5. Jaecoo, on the other hand, is targeting premium SUV buyers with the Jaecoo J7, a mid-sized SUV offering petrol and plug-in hybrid options.
Both brands are aiming for a rapid expansion, with plans to establish 130 UK dealership locations by the end of the year. Their competitive pricing and premium features could make them serious challengers to European brands like Peugeot and Hyundai.
Avatr, a joint venture between Changan Automobile, CATL, and Huawei, is expected to launch in the UK in 2025. The brand's flagship model, the Avatr 11, is a premium electric SUV comparable in size to the BMW X5. Powered by Huawei’s cutting-edge technology, it features dual motors producing 570bhp and offers an impressive range of up to 420 miles.
With a focus on high-end tech and performance, Avatr is looking to attract buyers who want a futuristic driving experience without the luxury price tag of brands like Tesla or Audi.
Nio, one of China’s leading electric car manufacturers, is planning to enter the UK market under its sub-brand, Onvo, with a launch expected in early 2025. The first model to arrive will be the Onvo L60, a coupe-SUV designed to rival the Tesla Model Y.
One of Nio’s biggest innovations is its battery-swapping technology, which allows drivers to replace their depleted battery with a fully charged one in just minutes, rather than waiting for a charge. If the UK adopts this technology widely, it could revolutionise EV ownership.
Great Wall Motor (GWM) is no stranger to the UK, having already launched its Ora 03. Now, it plans to expand its lineup with models like the Tank 300, a rugged off-roader that could offer a more affordable alternative to the Land Rover Defender.
GWM has also just introduced the Haval Jolion Pro Hybrid, a mid-size SUV offering hybrid efficiency. With petrol prices fluctuating and demand for fuel-efficient vehicles rising, this could be a smart addition to the UK market.
BYD has already made an impact in the UK with the Atto 3 SUV, and it’s not stopping there. In 2025, it plans to expand its lineup with models like the Sealion 7, a family-friendly electric SUV offering an affordable alternative to premium electric models from Volkswagen and Tesla.
BYD is rapidly growing in Europe, thanks to its advanced battery technology and competitive pricing. Given its strong position in the Chinese market, it could become one of the biggest challengers to legacy car brands in the UK.
With these new manufacturers entering the UK, 2025 will be a major year for the automotive industry. Consumers will have more choice, particularly in the electric vehicle segment, as competition drives prices down and technology improves. Brands like Leapmotor, Omoda, and Nio could challenge established manufacturers by offering innovative, well-equipped cars at competitive prices.
Take a look at our New Cars Coming in 2025 blog for more details. We also publish weekly blogs on a variety of topics, browse them all in the blog section of our website.
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