The UK is considering imposing tariffs on Chinese car imports as part of discussions with the EU regarding the Industrial Accelerator Act. The EU itself implemented tariffs of up to 45% on Chinese vehicles starting in October 2024.
During these talks, the EU raised the subject of tariffs with the UK. A UK government spokesperson stated, "We have not put tariffs on Chinese EVs. We continue to engage closely with industry so that our approach reflects the sector’s and UK’s national interests."
Massimiliano Messina warned that "Europe cannot have a Trojan horse where the Chinese are going to flood the market." In contrast, one source claimed the UK does not possess the substantial trade deficit that the EU is currently managing.
Market data shows BYD achieved a 12% share of the UK new car market in 2026. For comparison, BYD's market share in September 2026 stood at 5.75% when measured against September 2025 figures.
Year-to-date sales for BYD reached 68,000 vehicles by the end of September. Jaecoo saw its market share increase by 223%, selling 58,000 new cars over the year so far.
Leapmotor sales experienced a significant rise of 765%, moving from roughly 1,500 cars sold in 2025 to over 13,000 in the current year.
