Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD (Build Your Dreams) has smashed sales records in the UK, delivering 9,271 passenger cars in Q1 2025—surpassing its entire sales volume of 8,787 units in 2024. This explosive growth underlines BYD’s rapid ascent in one of Europe’s most competitive car markets.
Market Share Skyrockets
The Q1 performance marks a 625% increase over Q1 2024, a growth rate rarely seen in the UK auto sector. BYD’s market share has surged from just 0.45% in 2024 to 1.6% in Q1 2025, with March alone hitting 1.8%—a significant leap in only two years since the brand launched passenger vehicles in the UK.
SEAL U DM-i Leads Plug-in Hybrid Segment
Among the standout performers, the BYD SEAL U DM-i, a plug-in hybrid SUV, emerged as the best-selling model in the PHEV segment in March 2025, with 3,975 units registered in Q1. Simultaneously, the fully electric SEAL ranked seventh among the most popular EVs for the same month, with 2,521 units sold.
SEALION 7 Makes an Electrifying Entrance
Adding to its momentum, the arrival of the SEALION 7, launched in March. Built on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 and equipped with the innovative Blade Battery, the SEALION 7 offers an all-electric range of up to 312 miles. With its dynamic SUV styling, spacious and tech-laden cabin, and impressive performance credentials, the SEALION 7 is already gaining popularity among UK drivers.
Leadership Speaks: Commitment to Value and Innovation
Steve Beattie, Sales and Marketing Director, BYD UK, said: I am incredibly proud of our latest achievement in the UK. Thanks to the tireless efforts of our team and retailer partners, we’ve shattered yet another sales record.
A Decade of Electrification in the UK
While passenger car division is still relatively new to British roads, the brand has deep roots in the UK’s clean transport movement. Since 2014, BYD has deployed over 2,500 fully electric buses in major UK cities. It has also contributed 1.8 GWh of battery energy storage to the national grid since 2016, further showcasing its dedication to sustainable mobility.
About BYD
Founded in 1995, BYD (Build Your Dreams) is a global high-tech powerhouse focused on electrification, innovation, and sustainable energy. The company operates across four major sectors: Automotive, Electronics, New Energy, and Rail Transit, with presence in over 70 countries. Backed by Warren Buffett, BYD is the world’s leading manufacturer of new energy vehicles (NEVs) and has committed to a zero-emissions future through innovations like the Blade Battery, DM-i Super Hybrid, and e-Platform 3.0.