SEAL U DM-i leads the charge as DOLPHIN SURF joins the UK range to power further growth
BYD, the world’s leading manufacturer of new energy vehicles, has recorded its second consecutive quarter of record-breaking UK sales, underscoring its position as the country’s fastest-growing automotive brand. According to SMMT data, the Chinese marque registered 10,116 new cars in the second quarter of 2025, propelling its year-to-date total to 19,390 units – more than double the brand’s entire UK sales volume for 2024.
The figures represent a staggering 567% year-on-year increase and mark a major milestone in BYD’s ambitious European growth strategy. Riding on the success of its expanding electrified portfolio, BYD has captured a growing share of the UK new car market, climbing to 1.8% for the year to date, with June alone reaching a new monthly high of 2.5%.
SEAL U DM-i and SEAL Saloon Drive Demand
BYD’s standout performer in Q2 was the SEAL U DM-i, a stylish and smart plug-in hybrid SUV that has rapidly become a favourite among British drivers. With 8,700 units sold, it significantly outpaced the rest of BYD’s line-up, demonstrating strong consumer appetite for versatile electrified options that balance performance, technology and efficiency.
The fully electric SEAL saloon continues to gain traction as well, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to delivering a diverse range of vehicles that meet the needs of both EV adopters and plug-in hybrid buyers.
DOLPHIN SURF Set to Accelerate Urban Sales
Adding further momentum is the recent introduction of the DOLPHIN SURF, BYD’s newest and most affordable fully electric model. Designed to win over city car buyers across the UK and Europe, the DOLPHIN SURF arrives with on-the-road prices from just £18,650, making it one of the most competitively priced EVs in the market.
With multiple battery options, customers can choose the configuration that best suits their driving needs – from compact urban commutes to more demanding, long-distance journeys. The DOLPHIN SURF is expected to play a pivotal role in BYD’s strategy to expand its footprint among younger, first-time EV buyers and urban dwellers looking for affordable, practical electrification.
Building on Momentum
Commenting on the brand’s latest performance, Steve Beattie, Sales and Marketing Director at BYD UK, said:
“These results reflect the fantastic response we’re seeing from UK consumers to our innovative and wide-ranging model line-up. Supported by our excellent retail teams, we’re giving them highly competitive and appealing options to enjoy the full benefits of electrified motoring.”
With a compelling product portfolio, an increasingly visible retail presence, and unmatched growth momentum, BYD is poised to make an even greater impact on the UK car market in the second half of 2025.
BYD: A Brand on the Rise
As BYD continues its upward trajectory, its unique blend of cutting-edge technology, competitive pricing, and design-led innovation positions it as a formidable force in the UK and European automotive landscape. The SEAL U DM-i and DOLPHIN SURF are just the beginning – and if the first half of 2025 is anything to go by, BYD’s ascent shows no sign of slowing down.
