The upcoming car brands set to debut in the UK by 2026
20. Aehra
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2025-2026
Established in 2022, Aehra is an Italian-American premium electric vehicle (EV) brand focusing on an ultra-luxurious experience. Currently, the brand is actively advancing plans for both a sedan and an SUV.
Emphasising aesthetics, Aehra's creative team is led by former Lamborghini chief designer Fillipo Perini. The SUV and Sedan, currently referred to as The SUV and The Sedan, boast an impressive theoretical range of 497 miles.
The SUV is expected to feature a powertrain with three motors, with two located on the rear axle and one on the front, generating a combined 794bhp. While it is anticipated that a similar configuration will be adopted for the sedan, Aehra has yet to officially confirm these specifics.
Notably, the two vehicles will share 70% of their components, with the majority sourced from existing manufacturers. This strategic approach aims to facilitate rapid scaling for Aehra in the automotive market.
19. Aiways
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2024
Established as a start-up in 2017, the company has expanded to establish a plant with an annual capacity of 300,000 cars, a comprehensive R&D centre, and a battery factory through partnerships with Changan and Jiangling. This Chinese EV company, initially scheduled for a UK launch in 2023, takes pride in its innovative 'clean sheet' approach to car design.
18. Alps
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2025-2026
The prominent Chinese automaker Nio is expanding its reach by introducing offshoots. Alps, poised to be the company's family car brand, aims to compete with established names such as Volkswagen, Renault, and Ford.
Nio CEO William Li informed the media in 2023 that the validation process for prototypes is well underway, and production-ready cars are expected to hit the market in 2024.
“Right-hand-drive prototypes do exist, but we will first focus on understanding and establishing ourselves in [other] European markets,” he added.
17. Deepal
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2025-2026
Changan is gearing up to introduce its off-road brand, Deepal, to the UK market, potentially by 2025.
The forthcoming 4x4 model, named the Deepal G318, is set to be manufactured in Thailand specifically for export markets with right-hand drive, including the UK.
While official technical details for the G318 are yet to be disclosed by Deepal, Changan officials have confirmed its substantial size, spanning nearly five meters in length.
Initially, it is anticipated that the vehicle will be offered with a 1.5-liter petrol-electric range-extender powertrain, resembling the technology found in the Deepal L07 saloon and S07 crossover, both of which are already available for purchase in China.
16. Exeed
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2026
The premium electric vehicle (EV) brand Exeed is expected to make its debut in Europe around 2025, with plans to extend its presence to the UK in 2026.
Currently established in Saudi Arabia, Chile, and Kazakhstan, this Chinese marque offers a lineup of four combustion-engine SUVs, soon to be augmented with plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) options.
Exeed's electric portfolio includes the Exlantix E03 saloon, challenging the BMW i5, and the Exlantix E0Y SUV, comparable in size to the Audi Q8 E-tron. Additionally, a third electric vehicle is in the pipeline.
Peter Martin, the European chief engineer and a former Jaguar Land Rover executive, confirmed a "cross-section" of powertrains, encompassing Internal Combustion Engine (ICE), PHEV, and Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), to cater to diverse market demands.
In its aspirations, Exeed positions itself against renowned premium German marques like Mercedes-Benz and BMW.
15. Firefly
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2024-2025
Introducing the sibling brand to Alps, tentatively named Firefly, Nio aims to position it as a budget-friendly option and is expected to target the Volkswagen ID 2 upon its anticipated debut in 2024.
While specific details regarding the car's specifications and pricing remain undisclosed by Nio, it is anticipated that the initial offering might be a compact hatchback or SUV.
Nio is also contemplating the integration of battery-swapping technology for the Firefly brand. This innovative feature would allow drivers to swiftly exchange depleted batteries for fully charged ones at designated roadside stations.
14. HiPhi
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2025
The Chinese technology conglomerate Human Horizons introduced HiPhi in 2017 as a luxury electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, unveiling the HiPhi X SUV and HiPhi Z fastback in Europe in 2023.
Featuring expansive 19.9-inch infotainment touchscreens, both models are slated to have a starting price of approximately £90,000 when they hit the market.
Positioning itself as China's leading forward-thinking luxury car brand, HiPhi caters to a younger demographic in China, particularly those favouring Huawei electronics over Apple.
13. IM
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2026
The parent company of MG, SAIC, appears poised to introduce a high-end electric vehicle (EV) brand in the UK by 2026.
Established in 2020 through a collaboration between the automaker and tech giant Alibaba, IM unveiled its inaugural model, the L7 executive saloon, in late 2021. Subsequently, the LS6 and LS7 SUVs were introduced, directly competing with Tesla's Model Y and Model X, respectively.
With price points ranging from £32,000 to £52,000 in China, IM's vehicles provide premium quality at a competitive price. Similar to HiPhi, IM is positioning itself in the luxurious segment of the market. Notably, IM garnered attention last year by entering into a technical partnership with Audi, leading to the use of IM platforms for various electric vehicles targeted at the Chinese market by the German brand.
12. Jaecoo
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2024
Founded in 1997, Chery is a Chinese state-owned company, prominently recognized as the joint-venture collaborator of JLR. It is responsible for manufacturing Jaguar and Land Rover models specifically tailored for the local market.
The Jaecoo 7 SUV from Chery is now making its way to the UK, joining the Omoda 5. Sized comparably to the Hyundai Tucson, the Jaecoo 7 is expected to offer plug-in hybrid powertrains.
To support the launch, a network of 50 dealer sites is in the process of establishment, with committed franchise partners including Endeavour Automotive, Listers, and Peter Vardy.
11. Leapmotor
Coming to the UK (estimated): 2024-2026
Stellantis is presently in the process of "assessing" the potential sales of Leapmotor electric vehicles in the UK following its substantial £1.3 billion investment, securing a 20% stake in the company.
Having exclusive export rights for Leapmotor cars outside of China, the multinational giant intends to initiate European sales through a new joint venture as early as 2024.
The Leapmotor T03, measuring 3620mm in length, could potentially become the most affordable electric car available in the UK. In France, it has been promoted for as low as €99 (£86) per month with no upfront deposit.
While the T03 competes directly with the Dacia Spring EV, the Leapmotor offers a notable advantage with a claimed range of 174 miles, surpassing its rival by 34 miles.
10. Lucid
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2024-2025
Lucid stands as one of the more established manufacturers in this lineup, initially venturing into the industry by producing batteries for other car makers back in 2007.
Although the California-based company announced its intention to manufacture its own cars in 2014, it wasn't until 2021 that the first Lucid Air rolled off the production line.
Scheduled for a UK release in 2024, the 1000bhp Lucid Air saloon boasts an impressive range of 516 miles, positioning it as the longest-range electric vehicle (EV) available in the UK.
Lucid's future line-up includes the Lucid Gravity, an SUV, followed by a pair of more budget-friendly, mid-sized models designed to compete with the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y.
9. Lynk&Co
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2024-2025
Lynk&Co has consistently expressed its intention to launch in the UK. Initially, the Lynk&Co 01, a plug-in hybrid electric SUV sharing the architecture with the Volvo XC40, was slated for a UK release in 2023.
The Lynk&Co 08 SUV, marking the brand's seventh model and based on the Volvo XC60's architecture, is anticipated to be introduced to international markets, potentially including the UK, starting in 2024.
Recognised in Europe for its subscription model, Lynk&Co offers customers an all-inclusive flat fee, allowing flexibility with sign-up durations as short as one month.
8. Mahindra
Coming to the UK (estimated) After 2025
By the end of the decade, the Mahindra Thar.e 4x4, from one of India's major automotive companies, could make its entry into the UK market.
Built on the Volkswagen Group's MEB platform, this electric 4x4 will be part of Mahindra's electric SUV line-up, featuring a substantial 364-mile range, DC fast-charging capabilities, and potential plans for a pick-up truck sibling.
Notably, Mahindra is already established in the UK through its advanced design centre in Oxfordshire and its Formula E race team.
7. Nio
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2025
This Chinese electric vehicle expert, equipped with a worldwide design centre in Munich and an advanced engineering hub in Oxford, is targeting UK sales in 2025.
The head of Nio Europe has affirmed that the company will facilitate direct sales, providing online purchasing options complemented by 'Nio Houses' for test drives.
A distinctive feature is the inclusion of battery swapping, allowing special roadside stations to exchange depleted packs for fully charged ones in under five minutes.
Nio aims to position itself as a compelling alternative to BMW and Mercedes-Benz, pledging to deliver value that surpasses the offerings of these established companies.
6. Omoda
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2024
Introducing its inaugural model destined for the UK market, the Omoda 5 is a mid-sized SUV by Chery, set to be available with both Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and Electric Vehicle (EV) powertrains starting from March.
The electric variant is equipped with a 61kWh battery, providing an estimated range of approximately 280 miles.
For the petrol model, a 187bhp 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine takes the reins. However, its official fuel economy stands at 31.4mpg. Another noteworthy detail is that Omoda, a fresh brand from Chery, derives its name from the combination of the chemical symbol for oxygen and the Italian word for fashion.
5. Seres
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2024
Established in 2017 by the Chongqing-based industrial group Sokon, Seres has its corporate headquarters in California.
Scheduled to make its UK debut in May 2024, the Seres 3 is priced starting at £29,995, positioning it as the most affordable electric SUV currently available.
Sized similarly to the Nissan Qashqai, this vehicle features a 161bhp motor on the front axle, a 54kWh battery, and boasts an official range of 205 miles.
4. Skywell
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2024
Established in 2017 through a collaboration between bus manufacturer Nanjing Golden Dragon and industrial group Skyworth, Skywell positions itself as a competitor to luxury brands like Audi and Mercedes-Benz.
Anticipated to reach the UK market in July 2024, the Skywell BE11's official pricing is yet to be disclosed, but initial estimates suggest it may commence around £32,000.
Equipped with a 201bhp electric motor, the BE11 boasts an impressive range of 304 miles. Additionally, there are undisclosed plans to potentially export other Skywell products to the UK in the future.
3. Vinfast
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2024
Founded by Vietnam's first billionaire, Pham Nhat Vuong, Vinfast is a relatively young company, established in 2017, and is already gearing up to introduce its cars in the UK.
With an evident commitment to the UK market, Vinfast is actively expanding its team.
The initial offering will be the VF 8, a mid-size electric SUV with an impressive 293-mile range and a 10-year/124,280-mile warranty. While the official pricing is yet to be announced, it is anticipated to commence at approximately £44,000.
Vinfast also presents the VF 9, a seven-seat electric SUV available in Europe for approximately €90,590 (£78,000).
2. Xpeng
Coming to the UK (estimated): 2024-2025
Established in 2014 by former GAC executives, this Chinese counterpart to Tesla, with offices in California and Munich, swiftly gained support from tech entrepreneurs Alibaba and Xiamoi.
Since its inception, the company has successfully launched four electric vehicles (EVs). The Xpeng G3 marked its initial venture, while the Xpeng P7 and Xpeng G9 have quietly gained traction in Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden. The P7, positioned as a rival to the Tesla Model 3, is anticipated to debut in the UK in 2025.
However, as of now, there are no plans to introduce the company's six-wheeled pick-up truck, complete with a built-in baby helicopter, to the UK.
1. Zeekr
Coming to the UK (estimated) 2024-2025
Presenting another addition to Geely's electric vehicle lineup, the initial model poised for the UK market is the Zeekr 001 shooting brake. With a powerful output of up to 536bhp, courtesy of a motor on each axle, it achieves a rapid 0-62mph time of less than 4.0 seconds. The officially stated range is an impressive 377 miles. Additionally, the Zeekr X, featuring Geely's SEA EV platform (also utilised in the Smart #1 and Volvo EX30), represents a more conventional SUV.
While Zeekr has not provided confirmation regarding the specific UK release dates for either model, it appears to be a matter of when, not if, they will make their debut in the UK market.