A WAVE of new car brands is set to enter the UK market this year, with many hailing from China as they shift their focus towards Europe.
Among them is BYD’s rival to Porsche, as well as NIO‘s budget-friendly sub-brand, Firefly, which could compete with established players such as Renault and Dacia.
Denza
Porsche could soon face some serious competition from China in the form of motoring giant BYD.
The ever-expanding car brand, one of the largest private companies in China, has already begun making waves globally, including in the UK, with its range of Tesla-challenging EVs.
For those seeking something with more speed and luxury, their sister brand Denza might appeal, starting with the first car in its line-up – the stunning Z9 GT.
Clearly borrowing design cues from Porsche’s Taycan and Panamera, the grand tourer, with its shooting brake estate styling, was unveiled at the recent Milan Design Week ahead of its European market release later this year.
The Z9 GT, available in both EV and PHEV variants, will be followed by four to six models in Europe, including SUVs and off-roaders, launching over the next few years.
Firefly
From one sister brand to another: Firefly will be the lower-tier, budget option introduced by Chinese EV maker NIO.
Its first UK offering will be a sleek, five-door supermini designed to rival the Renault 5 and Dacia Spring as one of the most affordable electric cars on the market.
Specifications such as power and range have yet to be confirmed, but it will feature NIO’s innovative battery-swap technology.
GAC
Earlier this month, it was revealed that the little-known brand GAC is preparing to take on the mighty MINI with an all-electric hatchback.
The Chinese manufacturer, which has partnerships with Honda and Toyota, is one of the country’s largest carmakers.
GAC is gearing up for its UK debut with the stylish Aion UT hatchback, billed as “China’s version of the Mini”.
The compact car certainly bears a resemblance to the iconic Mini and has been designed with city driving in mind.
In terms of size, it’s perhaps closer to the Volkswagen ID.3, with its interior space being remarkably well-utilised.
The Aion UT is expected to launch in the UK at a price point just above £20,000, making it significantly cheaper than the £30,795-rated ID.3 and roughly on par with the MG 4 EV and the Renault 5.
Mobilize
It’s not all about China, as Renault’s new urban mobility brand is entering the fray to challenge the UK’s favourite quadricycles – the enduring Citroën Ami and the charming Micro Microlino.
The Mobilize Duo, a spiritual successor to the cult-favourite Twizy, reportedly has a 100-mile range with its larger battery version, while a van variant—called the Bento—provides additional cargo space at the rear.
Onvo
Another NIO-owned brand is set to arrive in the UK in the coming months, offering an affordable EV that could give Tesla a run for its money.
The luxurious Onvo L60 coupe-SUV is expected to hit showrooms soon, with a particular emphasis on value as it aims to undercut Tesla’s hugely popular Model Y.
The L60 prioritises interior space, with NIO claiming the model’s short overhangs maximise cabin room and that “with ingenious storage design, every occupant can bring along their own luggage”.
It’s also significantly more powerful than the £46,990-rated Model Y, featuring a 900V electrical architecture capable of ultra-rapid charging.
Yangwang
The curiously named Yangwang, like Denza, is linked to BYD – but with an added touch of prestige.
Yangwang specialises in large, luxury SUVs, such as the Yangwang U8, a rugged off-roader with a surprising party trick: it can float in water for up to 30 minutes.