Chinese automotive brand Jaecoo has overtaken established giants Nissan and Ford in the UK car sales rankings for February 2025, according to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Jaecoo recorded 1,944 new registrations during the month, securing the 15th position overall—a remarkable leap for a brand that only entered the UK market in 2024.
Jaecoo's Rapid Ascent
Jaecoo, a subsidiary of Chinese state-owned automaker Chery, has quickly gained traction with its mix of affordable SUVs and crossovers. The brand's February performance saw it outsell Nissan (1,821 registrations, 16th place) and Ford (1,719 registrations, 17th place). Jaecoo's sales were driven primarily by the Jaecoo 7, a compact SUV priced from £29,000, which accounted for over 1,200 registrations.
The brand's success is part of a broader trend of Chinese automakers gaining market share in Europe. In the UK, Jaecoo has benefited from strong dealer network expansion and competitive pricing against legacy brands. According to SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes, “The UK market is becoming increasingly diverse, with new entrants like Jaecoo offering consumers more choice and value.”
Impact on Traditional Brands
Nissan and Ford have long been top sellers in the UK, but both have faced challenges in recent years. Nissan’s UK sales fell 12% year-on-year in February, partly due to supply chain issues and a shift towards electric vehicles (EVs). Ford, meanwhile, saw a 9% decline, as its focus on higher-margin models like the Puma and Kuga has not fully compensated for lower volumes in the compact segment.
Jaecoo's rise also highlights the growing acceptance of Chinese brands among UK buyers. A survey by What Car? found that 34% of new car buyers would consider a Chinese brand, up from 18% in 2023. The brand’s five-year warranty and competitive pricing are key selling points.
Market Context
The UK car market overall grew 8.4% in February 2025, with 84,886 new cars registered. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for 22.6% of sales, up from 17.4% a year earlier. Jaecoo plans to launch its first fully electric model, the Jaecoo 5 EV, later this year, which could further boost its standings.
Industry analyst David Bailey of the University of Birmingham said: “Jaecoo’s performance shows that Chinese brands are no longer just budget alternatives—they are becoming mainstream competitors. Traditional automakers need to adapt quickly or risk losing significant market share.”
