BYD, MG (owned by SAIC), and other Chinese automakers are gaining market share in Europe, the UK, and other overseas markets with lower-priced electric vehicles, often equipped with more advanced technology.

Following its launch in the UK in 2022, the MG4 EV quickly became one of the most popular electric vehicle models in the region, offering a range of up to 519 km, fast charging in under 35 minutes, and a spacious, comfortable interior. It was considered a more affordable alternative to the Volkswagen ID.3.

BYD Dolphin (left) and MG4 EV in the European market. *Photo: Caradisiac*

One year later, BYD launched the Dolphin in the UK, one of its most popular electric vehicle models in China, priced approximately 500 British pounds (700 US dollars) lower than the MG4, starting at 25,490 British pounds (34,800 US dollars).

MG further escalated the competition by launching the new 2026 MG4 EV Urban model with a starting price of just 23,495 British pounds (32,000 US dollars). David Allison, Head of Product and Planning at MG UK, stated that the new model reaffirms the brand's ability to make electric vehicle ownership more accessible than ever.

The most affordable Comfort Standard Range variant features a 43 kWh battery pack and a 147 horsepower motor, providing a range of up to 323 km under WLTP standards.

Upgrading to the Comfort Long Range version, starting at 25,495 British pounds (34,800 US dollars), offers a 53,9 kWh battery and a 158 horsepower motor, delivering a range of 415 km. The Premium Long Range variant is priced from 27,995 British pounds (38,200 US dollars).

The new MG4 Urban EV model will be sold alongside the standard 2026 MG4 EV model, which starts at 29,995 British pounds (41,000 US dollars).

Currently, Chinese automakers, led by MG and BYD, accounted for nearly 10% of car sales in the UK in 2025. With the launch of new, lower-priced models, their market share by the end of 2026 is highly anticipated.

My Anh (according to Electrek)