Are We Being Fair to Chinese EVs?

At Spencers Car Sales, we’ve been keeping a close eye on the ever-changing electric vehicle (EV) market – and there’s one trend we can’t ignore: the growing presence of Chinese EV brands in the UK.

Recently, there's been a wave of coverage – like today’s piece on the BBC – that seems designed to cast a shadow of doubt over Chinese EVs. Questions are raised about data security, build quality, and long-term value. But dig a little deeper, and a more nuanced picture emerges.

Let’s take the Omoda E5 as an example. In December 2024, it was offered with an enormous £6,500 discount, bringing the price down to just £28,500 – and that’s before you even consider the 0% APR finance option they ran alongside it. For a fully electric, well-equipped SUV, that’s serious value.

So why the scepticism?

In almost every review of a Chinese EV, there’s a comparison to a so-called “European rival” – often followed by a suggestion that the latter is somehow a safer or more sensible choice. Yet it’s rare to see a Chinese EV receive a full 5-star review, even when spec-for-spec and pound-for-pound, they’re competing impressively.

Could this be due to an unspoken bias in the automotive press? Are we applying different standards simply because the badge on the bonnet isn’t from a legacy brand?

Let’s be clear: not all Chinese EVs are perfect. But then again, neither are all European ones. What’s undeniable is that companies like BYD, MG (now Chinese-owned), and Omoda are pushing the envelope – delivering well-specced, attractively priced electric cars with warranties and features that match or even exceed many of their competitors.

The UK government and EU are reportedly reviewing tariffs and data security concerns around Chinese vehicles. While we absolutely support fair competition and the protection of consumer data, it’s also worth asking: are we at risk of missing out on genuinely affordable and innovative EVs because of geopolitics or outdated perceptions?

At Spencers Car Sales, we believe in giving every vehicle a fair shot – no matter where it’s built. If a car delivers great value, solid performance, and meets the needs of our customers, we’re going to look at it with an open mind.

So before you write off that Omoda or BYD because of where it’s made, come and see it for yourself. You might be surprised at what the new era of EVs has to offer.