BYD Sales Soar 880% in the UK, Making It the Brand's Largest Overseas Market
In a remarkable achievement, BYD, China's leading electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, recorded an explosive 880% year-on-year sales growth in the UK this September, with 11,271 vehicles sold, catapulting the UK to become BYD's largest overseas market .
This surge, up from 1,150 units in September 2024, has pushed BYD's total sales in the UK for the year to over 35,000 vehicles, capturing a 3.6% market share in the UK's EV sector and establishing the company as the second-best-selling EV brand in the region, just behind Tesla .
Strategic Growth and Market Success
The outstanding performance is attributed to several key factors. A significant one is the popularity of specific models. The SEAL U DM-i (known as Song Plus DM-i in China) was a standout, accounting for 5,373 units in September and ranking as the sixth best-selling vehicle overall in the UK and the best-selling hybrid model for the first three quarters of the year . Alongside the SEAL U, the pure electric SEALION 7 has also been well-received by British consumers .
BYD's strategic expansion of its retail network has also played a crucial role. By the end of September, the company had established 100 retail stores across the UK and plans to launch more new plug-in hybrid and pure electric models in the coming months, strengthening its local presence .
Notably, this success was achieved despite the UK government's EV subsidy scheme, which excludes vehicles manufactured in China. This effectively places BYD's models, all of which are currently produced in China, at a price disadvantage compared to subsidized competitors. Despite this, BYD's competitive pricing and strong product appeal have allowed it to overcome this hurdle .
A Foothold in Europe and Global Performance
BYD's success in the UK is part of its broader momentum in Europe. As of August, the company's sales across the European Union have grown by over 200% year-on-year, outperforming Tesla, which saw a decline of more than 36% in the region . This growth is supported by strategic local investments, such as the upcoming passenger car factory in Hungary, which aims to mitigate future tariff risks .
Globally, BYD reported cumulative sales of 3.26 million vehicles from January to September 2025, with overseas sales accounting for 701,600 units, a 139% increase year-on-year . However, this global strength contrasts with a slight dip in its domestic market, where September sales in China saw a year-on-year decrease of 5.5%, reflecting a competitive and challenging home market .
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, BYD has ambitious plans for the UK and Europe. The company aims to introduce its super-fast charging technology to the region next year . The brand's manager for the UK and Ireland, Bono Ge, stated BYD's ambition is to become the UK's largest manufacturer of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, emphasizing that "We want people to see us as a tech company" .
Analysts from CLSA estimate that profits from BYD's international sales are poised to account for over half of its total profits for the first time next year, underscoring the critical importance of its overseas growth .
About BYD
Founded in 1995, BYD has transformed from a mobile phone battery maker into a global leader in new energy vehicles and batteries. With a comprehensive ecosystem of products ranging from passenger EVs to commercial vehicles and energy storage systems, BYD is committed to leveraging technological innovation to shape the future of global mobility.