Chinese electric vehicles hit record sales in UK and worldwide in 2026

DR Automobiles introduced the DR 6 compact SUV for the European market, priced between €28,900 and €30,400. The model is built on Changan’s Ark platform, offers a 1.4‑litre turbo gasoline engine (188 hp) with an optional LPG version, and features a 12.3‑inch infotainment screen, 19‑inch wheels and a range of driver‑assist systems.

Online sales of electric two‑wheelers in June 2026 were dominated by Chinese newcomers Ninebot (32.7% share) and XiaoNiu (20.4%), together accounting for more than half of the market. Traditional brands such as Yadea and Aima together held only about 36% of online sales.

Chinese passenger‑vehicle exports continued to accelerate. In the first half of 2026, Chinese new‑energy cars sold in the United Kingdom reached 183,000 units, a year‑on‑year increase of over 110% and a market share of 16.1%. Leading brands included SAIC‑MG, BYD and Chery’s Jaecoo. Leapmotor reported global cumulative sales of nearly 250,000 units, with June deliveries of 93,376 vehicles and exports exceeding 150,000 units across more than 40 countries. Germany emerged as the top market for the Leapmotor B10, Italy showed strong penetration, and the company entered Mexico in July.