British motorists ‘turning to China’ in bid to secure ‘affordable’ electric cars

British drivers are “looking to secure better deals” on with many considering models over mainstream brands.

Models built in China have than many European models

The is encouraging many to consider the smaller brands over household names from large Western firms.

New analysis from found that almost a third (32%) of drivers would consider purchasing an electric vehicle from a Chinese manufacturer.

This was up a staggering 19% year-on-year with motorists possibly more likely to buy a model from China now than ever before.

The poll found that the biggest single motivation behind

A massive 28% of those surveyed were increasingly cost-conscious and are focused simply on saving money.

Iain Read, Head of Editorial at Carwow, also stressed that cheaper prices were one of the biggest motivators for making the switch.

He said: “Although the shift to electric vehicles continues to build momentum, many drivers are increasingly looking to secure better deals from manufacturers further afield – with many Chinese manufacturers paving the way for offering advanced models at affordable prices.

“As demand for electric vehicles continues to rise, it will be interesting to see which new makes and models enter the sector, as competition between manufacturers continues to build.”

The average Chinese battery EV imported into the EU last year was priced at just over €25,200 (£20,955).

This is a massive 32% lower than the price of other non-EU imports which stood at €37,130 (£30,875).

The EU decided to introduce extra tariffs on Chinese electric cars back in July to battle low prices.

However, the UK has decided to use its freedoms and not impose extra tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.

It means vehicles built in Asia such as the MG 3 can be snapped up for the bargain price of just £14,000.

Meanwhile, the MG ZS will set motorists back just £18,000 with the BYD Dolphin is on sale for just £30,000.