Motorists swarm to Chinese EVs as 'affordability' concerns see drivers back foreign cars

Motorists have been increasingly turning to Chinese-made cars as cost fears push more drivers towards cheaper electric vehicles, new research suggests.

Fresh research has found that more than two in five motorists (43 per cent) would consider buying a Chinese vehicle as their next car.

In comparison, only 26 per cent said they would not consider purchasing a Chinese-made model, highlighting a major shift in purchasing attitudes.

The latest figures represent a significant increase in confidence compared with earlier this year, when only 22 per cent of drivers said they felt comfortable buying a Chinese-made car.

Chinese brands have rapidly expanded their presence in the UK in recent years, particularly in the electric vehicle market, where they have attracted attention with lower prices and high-tech features.

While concerns remain, motorists appear less worried than they were previously, with the survey finding that 32 per cent of drivers are still concerned about unfamiliarity with Chinese brands, making it the biggest barrier to purchase.

Meanwhile, 30 per cent cited reliability concerns, while 28 per cent were worried about spare parts availability, and another 28 per cent raised concerns about build quality.

Previously, 42 per cent of motorists were worried about spare parts availability, while 37 per cent had concerns about reliability and build quality.

Despite growing confidence, a quarter of motorists said they would prefer to wait until Chinese manufacturers built a longer track record in the UK before making a purchase decision.

Industry experts have now stated that the growing popularity of Chinese vehicles is being driven by the increasing number of affordable electric cars entering the market.

Chinese manufacturers have established a track record of offering a lower-cost alternative to electric vehicles, with drivers drawn to the advanced technology at more competitive prices.

The research suggested that while some scepticism remains, Chinese brands are becoming a more credible option for motorists, particularly as the transition to electric vehicles grows, in line with the Zero Emission Vehicle mandate.

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John Cassidy, managing director of Close Brothers Motor Finance, said: "Chinese vehicle manufacturers are becoming an increasingly important part of the UK automotive market, particularly as demand for electric vehicles continues to grow.

"Our research suggests motorists are becoming more comfortable with the idea of buying a Chinese-made car, driven in part by the affordability and accessibility of many of the electric models now available."

Mr Cassidy explained that the findings showed that confidence in Chinese brands was continuing to improve, despite lingering concerns.

"Greater acceptance of these brands is likely to encourage more new Chinese vehicles onto UK roads, which over time will help boost supply in the used car market and give motorists even more choice," he added.

The expert also highlighted the growing opportunity for dealerships as demand for lower-cost electric vehicles increases in the UK.

He noted that drivers could take advantage of a wider range of finance options to make them even cheaper.