t’s been another landmark week for the Chinese car brands in the UK market, as their relentless march continues.

 

First, sales numbers. In the January new-car sales figures, brands that weren’t even selling cars here little more than two years ago – BYD, Chery, Omoda, Jaecoo and Leapmotor – now account for around 10 per cent of new-car registrations. Bundle closely related siblings Chery, Jaecoo and Omoda together, and only Kia and Volkswagen outsold them – which defies conventional wisdom. 

 

Yes, the cars look smart in a nondescript sort of way and are well specced, but the success is surely being led by price. Entering the UK market when money is tight has helped establish a foothold that looks pretty permanent now. We used to be such a brand-conscious and brand-loyal nation of car drivers, so it’s incredible to see how quickly that has changed.