Chinese Electric Cars in the UK 2026: BYD, MG, and More - Complete Used Car Buyer's Guide
Chinese EVs now account for 12% of UK electric car sales. Learn about BYD, MG, Ora, and other brands - including reliability data, depreciation rates, warranty coverage, and essential checks before buying a used Chinese EV.
January 18, 2026
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23 min read
Introduction
Chinese electric vehicles have transformed the UK car market, rising from virtually zero presence in 2020 to capturing 12% of all EV sales in 2025. Brands like BYD, MG, Ora, and Polestar are now household names, offering competitive pricing and technology that rivals established manufacturers.
The Chinese EV Revolution (UK 2025 Data):
- Market share: 12% of EV sales (up from 3% in 2022)
- Top-selling Chinese EV: MG4 (23,400 units sold in 2025)
- Fastest-growing brand: BYD (+340% year-on-year)
- Average price: £28,500 (vs. £42,000 for European EV equivalents)
- Used market: 45,000+ Chinese EVs now available secondhand
- Depreciation: 35-50% after 3 years (vs. 25-35% for Tesla)
For used car buyers, Chinese EVs present both opportunity and risk. The prices are attractive, the technology is impressive, but questions remain about reliability, parts availability, servicing networks, and long-term value retention.
This comprehensive guide examines every major Chinese EV brand available in the UK, analyses their reliability and depreciation data, explains what to check before buying, and helps you decide whether a Chinese EV is right for you.
Bottom line: Chinese EVs offer exceptional value for money when new. As used cars, they require careful consideration of warranty status, service history, and battery health. With proper checks, they can be excellent purchases—but due diligence is essential.
The Rise of Chinese EVs: How We Got Here
From Unknown to Mainstream (2020-2026)
2020: MG launches ZS EV (£28,495). First modern Chinese EV in UK. Skepticism widespread.
2021: MG5 EV estate launches. Ora Cat debuts at Munich Motor Show. BYD announces UK entry.
2022: MG4 launches (£25,995). Game-changer pricing. Ora Funky Cat arrives (later renamed GWM Ora). Chinese EVs gain 3% UK EV market share.
2023: BYD Atto 3 and Dolphin launch in UK. Polestar 2 (Swedish-Chinese brand) gains popularity. MG4 becomes best-selling EV under £30,000.
2024: BYD Seal competes with Tesla Model 3. Chinese EVs hit 8% UK EV market share. MG Cyberster sports car launches.
2025: BYD Sealion 7, MG3 Hybrid launch. Chinese EVs reach 12% market share. First wave of used Chinese EVs enters market with expired warranties.
2026: 45,000+ used Chinese EVs available. Depreciation data now available. Buyers have real-world reliability information to guide decisions.
Why Chinese EVs Became Popular
1. Aggressive Pricing
Chinese manufacturers benefit from lower production costs, government subsidies, and economies of scale:
| Vehicle | UK Price | European Equivalent | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| MG4 Standard | £26,995 | VW ID.3 Pure (£36,450) | £9,455 |
| BYD Dolphin | £25,490 | Renault Megane E-Tech (£34,995) | £9,505 |
| BYD Atto 3 | £36,490 | Hyundai Ioniq 5 (£44,245) | £7,755 |
| Ora Funky Cat | £31,995 | Mini Electric (£34,200) | £2,205 |
2. Technology Leadership
Chinese manufacturers have invested heavily in EV-specific technology:
BYD's Blade Battery:
- Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry
- Safer than traditional batteries (nail penetration test passed)
- 8-year/150,000-mile warranty
- Lower degradation rate
MG's Software:
- iSMART connected services
- Over-the-air updates
- Comprehensive app integration
3. Aggressive Warranty Coverage
Chinese brands offer industry-leading warranties to build trust:
| Brand | Vehicle Warranty | Battery Warranty |
|---|---|---|
| MG | 7 years/80,000 miles | 7 years/80,000 miles |
| BYD | 6 years/150,000 miles | 8 years/150,000 miles |
| Ora | 5 years/60,000 miles | 8 years/100,000 miles |
| Polestar | 4 years/60,000 miles | 8 years/100,000 miles |
Compare to:
- Tesla: 4 years/50,000 miles (8 years battery)
- VW: 3 years/60,000 miles (8 years battery)
- BMW: 3 years/unlimited miles (8 years battery)
4. Styling and Features
Chinese EVs prioritize features that appeal to buyers:
- Large touchscreens (13-15 inches standard)
- Premium audio systems
- Panoramic roofs
- Advanced driver assistance
- Modern, distinctive designs
Brand-by-Brand Guide
MG (SAIC Motor)
Background: British brand, owned by Chinese SAIC Motor since 2007. UK's best-selling Chinese EV brand.
Models Available:
MG4 EV (2022-present)
- Type: Hatchback
- Range: 218-323 miles (WLTP)
- Price new: £26,995-£36,495
- Used prices: £18,000-£28,000 (1-3 years old)
- Pros: Excellent value, fun to drive, good range
- Cons: Interior quality average, small boot
- Reliability: Good (early reports positive, limited long-term data)
MG ZS EV (2019-present)
- Type: Compact SUV
- Range: 198-273 miles (WLTP)
- Price new: £28,495-£34,495
- Used prices: £14,000-£24,000 (1-5 years old)
- Pros: Practical, affordable, good warranty
- Cons: Dated interior (pre-2022 models), average efficiency
- Reliability: Good (proven over 5 years)
MG5 EV (2020-present)
- Type: Estate
- Range: 250-300 miles (WLTP)
- Price new: £31,995-£35,995
- Used prices: £16,000-£26,000 (1-4 years old)
- Pros: Only electric estate at this price, practical
- Cons: Looks polarizing, plasticky interior
- Reliability: Good
MG Cyberster (2024-present)
- Type: Sports roadster
- Range: 316 miles (WLTP)
- Price new: £54,995-£59,995
- Used prices: £45,000-£52,000 (limited availability)
- Pros: Stunning looks, quick, unique
- Cons: Expensive for MG, limited servicing experience
MG UK Network:
- Dealers: 130+ UK dealerships
- Service: Available at all MG dealers
- Parts availability: Good (UK warehouse stock)
- Satisfaction: 3.8/5 (Auto Express Driver Power 2025)
BYD (Build Your Dreams)
Background: Chinese giant, world's largest EV manufacturer. Entered UK market 2022. Makes own batteries (cost advantage).
Models Available:
BYD Dolphin (2023-present)
- Type: Compact hatchback
- Range: 265 miles (WLTP)
- Price new: £25,490-£29,990
- Used prices: £19,000-£25,000 (limited used stock)
- Pros: Fun to drive, great value, Blade battery safety
- Cons: Rear space tight, slow charging on base model
- Reliability: Too early for data (positive early reports)
BYD Atto 3 (2023-present)
- Type: Compact SUV
- Range: 260-323 miles (WLTP)
- Price new: £36,490-£40,490
- Used prices: £26,000-£34,000
- Pros: Quirky interior, spacious, good range
- Cons: Divisive styling, firm ride
- Reliability: Limited data (promising)
BYD Seal (2023-present)
- Type: Saloon (Tesla Model 3 rival)
- Range: 323-354 miles (WLTP)
- Price new: £45,695-£50,695
- Used prices: £36,000-£44,000
- Pros: Excellent range, premium feel, fast charging
- Cons: Expensive for BYD, limited service network
- Reliability: Limited data
BYD Sealion 7 (2025-present)
- Type: Mid-size SUV
- Range: 295 miles (WLTP)
- Price new: £47,000-£55,000
- Used prices: Too new for used market
- Pros: Competes with Tesla Model Y
- Cons: No used market data yet
BYD UK Network:
- Dealers: 70+ (expanding rapidly)
- Service: Via authorized dealers + mobile service
- Parts availability: Growing (some delays reported)
- Satisfaction: 3.6/5 (limited data)
Ora (Great Wall Motor)
Background: Lifestyle EV brand from Great Wall Motor. Targets young, design-conscious buyers. Rebranded from "GWM Ora" to just "Ora".
Models Available:
Ora Funky Cat (2022-present)
- Type: Retro-styled hatchback
- Range: 193 miles (WLTP)
- Price new: £31,995-£38,995
- Used prices: £18,000-£28,000
- Pros: Unique styling, well-equipped, fun
- Cons: Limited range, small boot, niche appeal
- Reliability: Mixed reports (software issues reported)
Ora 03 (2024-present)
- Type: Compact hatchback
- Range: 260 miles (WLTP)
- Price new: £33,495-£37,995
- Used prices: £26,000-£32,000 (limited)
- Pros: Better range than Funky Cat, more practical
- Cons: Less distinctive styling, limited dealer network
Ora UK Network:
- Dealers: 45+ UK locations
- Service: Dealer-based
- Parts availability: Limited (some delays)
- Satisfaction: 3.2/5 (concerns about software updates)
Polestar (Geely/Volvo)
Background: Swedish-Chinese brand (Geely-owned, Volvo connection). Premium positioning. Built in China (Polestar 2, 4) and China/Sweden.
Models Available:
Polestar 2 (2020-present)
- Type: Fastback saloon
- Range: 320-406 miles (WLTP)
- Price new: £44,950-£55,950
- Used prices: £24,000-£40,000 (excellent used value)
- Pros: Premium feel, great range, Android Automotive
- Cons: Expensive new, firm ride, subscription features
- Reliability: Good (Volvo engineering heritage)
Polestar 3 (2024-present)
- Type: SUV
- Range: 379 miles (WLTP)
- Price new: £69,990-£79,990
- Used prices: £58,000-£70,000 (limited)
- Pros: Luxurious, excellent range, fast charging
- Cons: Very expensive, BMW/Mercedes competitor
Polestar 4 (2024-present)
- Type: Coupe-SUV
- Range: 367 miles (WLTP)
- Price new: £54,950-£64,950
- Used prices: Too new for market
- Pros: No rear window (cameras instead), distinctive
- Cons: Polarizing design, no rear visibility
Polestar UK Network:
- Dealers: Polestar Spaces (25+ locations)
- Service: Via Volvo dealer network (extensive)
- Parts availability: Excellent (Volvo infrastructure)
- Satisfaction: 4.0/5 (premium experience)
Volvo (Geely-owned)
Background: Swedish brand, Chinese-owned since 2010. EVs built in China and Belgium.
Models Available:
Volvo EX30 (2024-present)
- Type: Compact SUV (smallest Volvo)
- Range: 298 miles (WLTP)
- Price new: £33,795-£40,295
- Used prices: £28,000-£36,000
- Pros: Excellent value, sustainable materials, Volvo safety
- Cons: Smaller than expected, no physical buttons
- Reliability: Limited data (Volvo track record reassuring)
Volvo EX40/EC40 (2020-present)
- Type: Compact SUV/Coupe-SUV
- Range: 298 miles (WLTP)
- Price new: £49,095-£59,095
- Used prices: £26,000-£42,000
- Pros: Volvo safety, solid build, good range
- Cons: Expensive, some built in China (check VIN)
- Reliability: Good
Volvo Network:
- Dealers: 100+ UK (established)
- Service: Full Volvo network
- Parts: Excellent availability
- Satisfaction: 4.2/5
Other Chinese Brands Entering UK
Xpeng (2025 entry):
- Targeting premium EV market
- G6, G9 models announced
- Limited dealer network initially
NIO (Expected 2026):
- Battery swap technology
- Premium positioning (BMW rival)
- Announced UK plans, delayed
Leapmotor (2024 entry):
- Partnership with Stellantis
- T03 city car, C10 SUV
- Sold through Stellantis dealers
Zeekr (Expected 2026):
- Geely's premium EV brand
- Zeekr 001, 007 announced
- Direct sales model planned
Depreciation: The Chinese EV Reality Check
Current Depreciation Data
Chinese EVs have shown higher depreciation than established brands:
3-Year Depreciation Comparison:
| Vehicle | New Price | 3-Year Value | Depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| MG4 Standard | £26,995 | £14,000 | 48% |
| MG ZS EV | £28,495 | £14,500 | 49% |
| BYD Atto 3 | £36,490 | £22,000 | 40% |
| Ora Funky Cat | £31,995 | £18,000 | 44% |
| Polestar 2 | £44,950 | £25,000 | 44% |
| Tesla Model 3 | £42,990 | £28,000 | 35% |
| VW ID.3 | £36,450 | £24,000 | 34% |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | £44,245 | £32,000 | 28% |
Key Insight: Chinese EVs lose 40-50% of value in 3 years vs. 28-35% for established brands.
Why Depreciation is Higher
1. Brand Perception
- Less established reputation
- Uncertainty about longevity
- Fewer buyers willing to pay premium for used
2. Rapid Model Updates
- Chinese manufacturers update models frequently
- Older models look dated quickly
- New models often cheaper/better spec
3. Warranty Expiration Concerns
- Chinese EV warranties expire at 5-7 years
- Buyers uncertain about out-of-warranty costs
- Service network still developing
4. Parts and Servicing Uncertainty
- Will parts be available in 10 years?
- Limited independent garage knowledge
- Reliance on dealer network
5. Oversupply
- Aggressive lease deals flooded market
- Ex-fleet/lease cars entering used market
- Supply exceeds demand for used Chinese EVs
Depreciation as Opportunity
For buyers, high depreciation means exceptional used value:
Example: 2023 MG4 Trophy Extended Range
- New price (2023): £36,495
- Used price (2026, 20,000 miles): £21,000
- Depreciation: £15,495 (42%)
- Remaining warranty: 4 years/60,000 miles
What you get for £21,000:
- 323 miles WLTP range
- 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds
- Rear-wheel drive handling
- 7-year warranty coverage remaining
- Modern tech, safety features
Equivalent new car at £21,000: Dacia Sandero, base-spec small cars
The calculus: Accept depreciation risk, enjoy premium EV at economy car prices.
Reliability: What We Know So Far
Industry Data Sources
Warranty Direct Index (2025): Limited Chinese EV data (too new)
Auto Express Driver Power (2025):
- MG: 22nd out of 32 brands (reliability: 3.8/5)
- Polestar: 18th out of 32 brands (reliability: 4.0/5)
- BYD: Not yet ranked (insufficient data)
What Car? Reliability Survey (2025):
- MG4: 4/5 (above average)
- MG ZS EV: 3.5/5 (average)
- Polestar 2: 4/5 (above average)
Common Issues Reported
MG Models:
- 12V battery drain: Some early MG4s suffered flat auxiliary batteries
- Software glitches: Infotainment freezes, OTA update failures
- Paint quality: Some reports of thin paint, stone chip vulnerability
- Charge port issues: Occasional charging cable recognition problems
Overall: Mostly minor issues, no major mechanical failures reported
BYD Models:
- Infotainment bugs: Software glitches in early cars (resolved via OTA)
- Panel gaps: Some reports of uneven fitment
- Creaking trim: Interior rattles in some examples
Overall: Too new for comprehensive data, early reports positive
Ora Models:
- Software issues: App connectivity problems
- Range anxiety: Real-world range below WLTP in some reports
- Service delays: Parts availability challenges
Overall: Most concerning of Chinese brands, limited network a factor
Polestar Models:
- Infotainment updates: Some owners report slow update rollouts
- HVAC issues: Climate control inconsistencies in early Polestar 2
- Panel fit: Improved on later production
Overall: Volvo connection provides reassurance, generally reliable
Battery Health Data
Crucial for used EV buyers: How are Chinese EV batteries holding up?
MG Battery Degradation (ZS EV, 2019-2022 models):
- 3-year average: 4-6% capacity loss
- High mileage (50,000+): 6-8% capacity loss
- Compared to industry: Average (neither exceptional nor concerning)
BYD Blade Battery (Limited Data):
- LFP chemistry: Expected to be more durable than NMC
- Early reports: Minimal degradation (under 3% at 2 years)
- Warranty: 8 years/150,000 miles (confidence signal)
Polestar 2 Battery:
- 3-year average: 3-5% capacity loss
- Good for segment: Similar to Tesla Model 3
Long-Term Reliability Concerns
Unknown factors:
- 10+ year durability: No Chinese EVs old enough to assess
- Parts availability (future): Will brands support old models?
- Software support: Will older cars receive updates?
- Independent repair: Limited expertise outside dealer network
Mitigation strategies:
- Buy with remaining manufacturer warranty
- Choose brands with strong UK commitment (MG, BYD, Polestar)
- Check service history meticulously
- Get battery health report before purchase
What to Check Before Buying a Used Chinese EV
1. Warranty Status (Critical)
Verify warranty coverage:
- Check original purchase date (warranty starts from first registration)
- Confirm mileage against warranty limits
- Check for warranty transfers (some warranties non-transferable)
- Request warranty documentation from seller
MG Warranty Transfer:
- ✅ Transfers to second owner
- Remaining time/mileage applies
- Must be registered with MG UK
BYD Warranty Transfer:
- ✅ Transfers with vehicle
- Requires notification to BYD UK
- Battery warranty separate (8 years regardless)
Polestar Warranty Transfer:
- ✅ Automatic with vehicle
- Volvo dealer network honors warranty
2. Service History
Essential documentation:
- Full dealer service stamps/digital records
- Receipts for any work performed
- Software update history (if available)
- Any warranty claims/repairs
Red flags:
- Missing service stamps
- Non-dealer servicing (may void warranty)
- Gaps in service history
- Evidence of modifications
3. Battery Health Report
Request battery state of health (SOH):
From dealer:
- Most dealers can provide battery health percentage
- Compare to expected degradation for age/mileage
- Acceptable: 90%+ SOH at 3 years
From independent check:
- Some EV specialists offer independent battery tests
- Costs £50-100
- Worth it for older/higher-mileage vehicles
Acceptable battery health:
| Age | Mileage | Minimum SOH |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | 10,000 | 97% |
| 2 years | 20,000 | 94% |
| 3 years | 30,000 | 91% |
| 4 years | 40,000 | 88% |
| 5 years | 50,000 | 85% |
Below these thresholds: Negotiate price or walk away.
4. Charging History
Fast charging frequency matters:
- Excessive DC fast charging degrades batteries faster
- Check if previous owner relied on rapid chargers
- Home charging primarily = better battery health
How to assess:
- Ask seller about charging habits
- Review any app data (MG iSMART, BYD app)
- Higher mileage but home-charging focused = often better than low mileage with frequent rapid charging
5. Comprehensive Vehicle Check
Standard used car checks apply:
- Outstanding finance: Chinese EVs often sold on PCP
- Write-off history: Any Category S/N markers
- Mileage verification: Cross-check with MOT records
- Theft history: Stolen vehicle markers
- Previous keepers: Frequent changes = red flag
Cost: £14.99 for comprehensive multi-database check
Why essential: Chinese EVs are new to UK market—less established provenance checking means higher fraud risk.
6. Physical Inspection
EV-specific checks:
Exterior:
- Charge port condition (damage, wear)
- Paint quality (known issue on some Chinese EVs)
- Panel gaps (manufacturing consistency)
- Underbody damage (battery pack)
Interior:
- Screen functionality (test all features)
- Software version (is it up to date?)
- Trim quality (rattles, loose panels)
- All electrical features working
Charging test:
- If possible, test charging during viewing
- Verify charge rate matches specification
- Check all charging cables included
7. Test Drive
What to assess:
- Regenerative braking: Smooth, consistent
- Acceleration: Instant response expected
- Range display: Consistent with SOH
- Software: Responsive, no freezing
- Climate control: HVAC working properly
- Driver assistance: Any warning lights
Red flags during test:
- Warning lights on dashboard
- Unusual noises (EVs should be near-silent)
- Inconsistent power delivery
- Software crashes/freezes
- Poor range estimate accuracy
Pricing Guide: What You Should Pay
MG Pricing (January 2026)
MG4 Standard Range (51kWh):
| Age | Mileage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 10,000 | £19,000-22,000 |
| 2023 | 20,000 | £16,500-19,000 |
| 2022 | 30,000 | £14,000-17,000 |
MG4 Long Range (64kWh):
| Age | Mileage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 10,000 | £22,000-25,000 |
| 2023 | 20,000 | £19,000-22,000 |
| 2022 | 30,000 | £16,000-19,000 |
MG ZS EV:
| Age | Mileage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 10,000 | £20,000-24,000 |
| 2023 | 20,000 | £17,000-21,000 |
| 2022 | 30,000 | £14,000-18,000 |
| 2021 | 40,000 | £12,000-15,000 |
MG5 EV:
| Age | Mileage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 10,000 | £21,000-25,000 |
| 2023 | 20,000 | £18,000-22,000 |
| 2022 | 30,000 | £15,000-19,000 |
BYD Pricing
BYD Dolphin:
| Age | Mileage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 10,000 | £20,000-24,000 |
| 2023 | 15,000 | £18,000-22,000 |
BYD Atto 3:
| Age | Mileage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 10,000 | £28,000-33,000 |
| 2023 | 20,000 | £24,000-29,000 |
BYD Seal:
| Age | Mileage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 10,000 | £38,000-44,000 |
| 2023 | 15,000 | £34,000-40,000 |
Polestar Pricing
Polestar 2 Single Motor:
| Age | Mileage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 10,000 | £30,000-35,000 |
| 2023 | 20,000 | £26,000-31,000 |
| 2022 | 30,000 | £23,000-28,000 |
| 2021 | 40,000 | £20,000-25,000 |
Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor:
| Age | Mileage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 10,000 | £36,000-42,000 |
| 2023 | 20,000 | £32,000-38,000 |
| 2022 | 30,000 | £28,000-34,000 |
Ora Pricing
Ora Funky Cat:
| Age | Mileage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 10,000 | £22,000-27,000 |
| 2023 | 20,000 | £18,000-23,000 |
| 2022 | 30,000 | £15,000-20,000 |
Negotiation Tips
Leverage points:
- Battery health below average: Negotiate £1,000-3,000 reduction
- Warranty nearly expired: Factor in extended warranty cost
- Missing service stamps: Risk premium = £500-1,000
- High-mileage example: Faster depreciation = harder resale
- Private sale vs. dealer: Expect £1,000-2,000 saving private (but less protection)
Should You Buy a Chinese EV? Decision Framework
Buy If...
1. Budget is Primary Concern
- Chinese EVs offer 25-40% savings vs. European equivalents
- Depreciation already absorbed on used examples
- Running costs identical (electricity, low maintenance)
2. Warranty Coverage Remains
- With 3-5 years warranty remaining, risk is minimal
- Battery warranty provides peace of mind
- Dealer support available if issues arise
3. Urban/Commuter Use
- Range adequate for daily driving
- Home charging possible
- Less reliance on service network
4. You Understand the Risks
- Depreciation will continue
- Long-term support uncertain
- Resale value may be challenging
5. MG or Polestar
- Established UK presence
- Proven service networks
- Better reliability data available
Avoid If...
1. You Plan Long Ownership (7+ years)
- Parts availability uncertain
- Software support may end
- Battery warranty will expire
2. No Remaining Warranty
- Out-of-warranty repairs expensive
- Limited independent repair options
- Battery replacement = car write-off
3. Rural Area Without Home Charging
- Reliance on public charging
- Limited dealer network in rural areas
- Breakdown recovery may be challenging
4. You Prioritize Resale Value
- Chinese EVs depreciate heavily
- May be difficult to sell
- Trade-in values low
5. First-Generation Ora/Lesser-Known Brands
- Service network concerns
- Higher risk of parts availability issues
- Limited reliability data
Best Choices by Budget
Under £15,000:
- MG ZS EV (2021-2022): Proven, practical, good warranty remaining
- Polestar 2 (high mileage 2021): Premium, Volvo network support
£15,000-£20,000:
- MG4 Standard/Long Range (2022-2023): Best value EV at this price
- MG5 EV (2022-2023): Only electric estate option
£20,000-£30,000:
- MG4 Trophy/Extended Range (2023-2024): Performance + range
- BYD Dolphin (2023-2024): Fun, great battery tech
- Polestar 2 (2022-2023): Premium feel, excellent value
£30,000-£40,000:
- BYD Atto 3/Seal (2023-2024): Latest tech, strong warranty
- Polestar 2 Long Range (2022-2024): Best all-rounder
Servicing and Running Costs
Service Costs Comparison
| Brand | Annual Service | Brake Fluid | Coolant | Air Con |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MG | £149-199 | £69 | £89 | £79 |
| BYD | £179-249 | £79 | £99 | £89 |
| Polestar | £199-299 | £89 | £109 | £99 |
| Tesla | £99-199 | £79 | N/A | £89 |
| VW ID.3 | £199-299 | £89 | £119 | £99 |
Insight: Chinese EV servicing costs comparable to established brands.
What EVs Need (Less Than ICE Cars)
Not required:
- Oil changes
- Spark plugs
- Timing belts
- Exhaust repairs
- Clutch replacement
Still required:
- Brake fluid (every 2 years)
- Cabin air filter (annually)
- Brake pads (less frequent due to regen braking)
- Tyres (EVs heavier, more tyre wear)
- 12V battery (every 4-5 years)
- Coolant (every 4-5 years)
Insurance Costs
Chinese EVs have moderate insurance costs:
| Vehicle | Insurance Group | Typical Premium* |
|---|---|---|
| MG4 Standard | 16 | £720 |
| MG ZS EV | 18 | £780 |
| BYD Dolphin | 17 | £750 |
| BYD Atto 3 | 22 | £880 |
| Polestar 2 | 32 | £1,050 |
*30-year-old, 5 years NCB, average UK postcode
Compared to equivalent ICE cars: 10-20% higher (EV repair costs)
FAQs
Q: Are Chinese EVs safe?
A: Yes. All Chinese EVs sold in UK meet Euro NCAP safety standards:
- MG4: 5-star Euro NCAP
- BYD Atto 3: 5-star Euro NCAP
- Polestar 2: 5-star Euro NCAP
- Ora Funky Cat: 5-star Euro NCAP
Safety is not a differentiator—Chinese EVs match European standards.
Q: Will Chinese brands still exist in 10 years?
A: MG has operated in UK for 17 years under Chinese ownership. BYD is the world's largest EV manufacturer. Polestar has Volvo/Geely backing. These brands are likely here to stay. Smaller brands (Ora, Leapmotor) carry more risk.
Q: Can any garage service a Chinese EV?
A: Basic servicing (brakes, tyres, fluids) can be done anywhere. EV-specific work (battery, motors, software) typically requires dealer or specialist. Independent EV specialists are growing but still limited.
Q: What if the manufacturer leaves the UK?
A: This is the key risk. If a manufacturer exits:
- Warranty claims become difficult
- Parts availability declines
- Software updates may stop
- Resale value crashes
Mitigation: Choose established brands (MG, BYD, Polestar) with clear UK commitment.
Q: How do I check battery health?
A: Options include:
- Request from dealer (free with viewing)
- Use manufacturer app (MG iSMART shows battery health)
- Independent EV specialist test (£50-100)
- OBD reader with EV-compatible software (DIY)
Q: Should I buy from a dealer or private seller?
A: Dealer recommended for Chinese EVs:
- Warranty easier to claim via dealer
- Pre-delivery inspection
- Consumer Rights Act protection
- Finance options available
Private sale: £1,000-2,000 cheaper but higher risk. Only consider if substantial warranty remaining and you can verify history.
Q: Are Chinese EV batteries different?
A: Many Chinese EVs use LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries:
- Pros: Safer, longer-lasting, cheaper, better in cold
- Cons: Slightly lower energy density (heavier for same range)
- BYD Blade Battery: LFP, industry-leading safety
- MG: Mix of LFP and NMC depending on model
LFP batteries are generally considered more durable long-term.
Conclusion
Chinese EVs have earned their place in the UK market through competitive pricing, impressive technology, and increasingly reliable performance. For used car buyers in 2026, they represent one of the best value propositions available—premium EV technology at mainstream prices.
Key Takeaways:
The Opportunity:
- 40-50% depreciation means £35,000 cars available for £18,000-22,000
- Technology matches or exceeds European equivalents
- Warranty coverage often industry-leading
- Running costs identical to any EV
The Risks:
- Long-term support uncertain
- Continued depreciation likely
- Service network still developing
- Limited independent repair expertise
Buying Strategy:
- Prioritize MG, BYD, or Polestar (established UK presence)
- Ensure substantial warranty remains (ideally 3+ years)
- Verify battery health (minimum 90% SOH)
- Check full service history (dealer stamps essential)
- Run comprehensive vehicle check (finance, write-off, mileage)
- Budget for depreciation (don't expect to recover purchase price)
Best Current Buys:
- Best value: MG4 Standard/Long Range (2022-2023) - £14,000-19,000
- Best all-rounder: Polestar 2 (2022-2023) - £23,000-32,000
- Best for families: MG ZS EV (2022-2023) - £14,000-18,000
- Most fun: BYD Dolphin (2023-2024) - £18,000-22,000
The Bottom Line: Chinese EVs offer exceptional value IF you buy smartly. With remaining warranty, verified history, and proper checks, they're among the best used car purchases available. Without those safeguards, they're a gamble on an uncertain future.
Before buying any used Chinese EV, verify its full history:
Get a Comprehensive Vehicle Check - £14.99
Our multi-database checks reveal outstanding finance, write-off history, mileage discrepancies, and previous keeper information. Essential for any used EV purchase—especially newer brands with limited market history.
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