The Jaecoo 7, a Chinese crossover, has taken the UK car market by storm, becoming the best-selling new car in March 2023. This meteoric rise is all the more remarkable considering the brand's recent entry into the UK market in January 2025. With 10,064 registrations, it outperformed established manufacturers like Ford, Nissan, and Kia. What makes this achievement even more intriguing is the context of the ongoing war in Iran, which has caused fuel prices to surge and potentially undermined consumer confidence. However, this situation could be a boon for electric vehicles (EVs), as rising fuel prices have sparked a surge in interest in used EVs, and dealers report a dramatic increase in sales. This trend could extend to new EVs if the war persists, as consumers seek more affordable alternatives. The rise of the Jaecoo 7 also coincides with a record month for electric car registrations, though the market still falls short of the government's 33% target for 2026. The SMMT's Mike Hawes warns of potential disruptions from the Iran conflict, but the situation may ultimately benefit EVs, as consumers look for cost-effective solutions in the face of rising energy costs. This shift towards EVs and hybrids, coupled with the decline in pure-petrol and pure-diesel car sales, signals a significant transformation in the UK automotive landscape, with Chinese brands making their mark on the market.
