BYD announces 'huge achievement' as Chinese brand plans major UK expansion in 2026

Felix Reeves

By Felix Reeves


Published: 24/12/2025

- 09:52

The Chinese brand has already sold more than 43,000 cars this year

Chinese auto giant BYD has confirmed several significant milestones in recent days as it looks to continue its worldwide expansion.

Despite entering the UK market a little over a year ago, BYD has rapidly become one of the most popular brands among drivers looking to switch to cleaner vehicles.


As part of its nationwide rollout, BYD has confirmed that it has opened its 125th retail outlet in the UK.

Over the last 12 months, the brand has increased its physical presence from just 52 dealers as it looks to build on its impressive year of sales and consumer interest.

The latest data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders shows that BYD has registered 43,740 new cars between January and November.

This is worth an impressive 2.33 per cent of the total market share, beating out established brands including Citroen, Cupra, Honda, Mini and even Tesla.

It also represents a massive 488 per cent growth in sales year-on-year, with BYD looking to accelerate its UK rollout in 2026.

Steve Beattie, deputy country manager of BYD UK, described it as a "huge achievement" for the brand, despite only launching in the UK recently.

BYD HQ and a BYD Super Hybrid ATTO 2 DM-i

BYD has celebrated a number of sales and production milestones in recent days

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BYD

He continued, saying: "It really speaks of our desire to provide access to the world's leading New Energy Vehicle manufacturer to as many customers as possible, and I'm massively proud of the team that put in all the hard work that made this happen.

"I'd also like to extend a huge thank you to all of our retail partners who have chosen to join us in 2025, as well as our existing partners who are expanding into additional locations."

Mr Beattie also noted that the brand's strong dealership presence allowed BYD to rank third in the latest National Franchised Dealers Association ranking.

BYD recently celebrated another milestone with the production of its 15 millionth "New Energy Vehicle", which comprises of hybrids and electric cars.

BYD celebrated the production of its 15 millionth New Energy Vehicle

BYD celebrated the production of its 15 millionth New Energy Vehicle

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BYD

BYD confirmed that an N8L SUV from its premium technology-led brand Denza, was the 15 millionth model. It was also the 15,000th N8L produced.

Employees celebrated the achievement with a special ceremony at the brand's factory in Jinan, Shandong province, China.

The factory began mass production of models just three years ago and was opened with an investment of more than £1.5billion.

The N8L will be sold in Europe next year in both Super Hybrid and electric variants through the brand's Denza subdivision.