Chinese automakers are rapidly increasing their presence in the UK, with Jaecoo’s 7 becoming the country’s best-selling new car in September.

More than 10,800 Jaecoo 7 vehicles were registered during the month, according to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

The result placed the Chinese-made SUV ahead of established competitors including the Ford Puma and Kia Sportage. The model, which starts at around £30,000, is available with combustion-engine and plug-in hybrid powertrains.

Jaecoo’s performance reflects a broader shift in the UK automotive market. Chinese brands collectively accounted for about 23% of new-car registrations in September, while BYD represented almost 6%.

Chery, which owns Jaecoo and Omoda, has expanded rapidly by focusing heavily on plug-in hybrids, which appeal to consumers concerned about charging infrastructure.

The UK’s tariff regime has also supported Chinese manufacturers. Unlike the European Union, Britain does not currently impose additional tariffs on Chinese electric-vehicle imports. However, changes could be required under future EU-UK trade arrangements.

Chery is also exploring greater investment in Britain. Jaecoo and Omoda UK Managing Director Victor Zhang said the company is examining the potential for vehicle assembly at Nissan’s Sunderland plant under a memorandum of understanding between the companies.

The September figures are particularly significant because the introduction of new registration plates typically drives higher sales.

Nevertheless, the rapid growth of Chinese brands indicates that their expansion is becoming a structural development in the UK market rather than a temporary sales phenomenon.

For established manufacturers, the increasing competitiveness of Chinese vehicles adds further pressure on pricing, technology and product positioning.