
MAIDSTONE, England — Izzy Woodrow is a believer.
Four weeks ago, he joined the small but growing number of Brits who have bought a Chinese-made vehicle.
"I've got a car that I enjoy driving [and is] super comfy. It's very quiet and the fit and finish is great and the technology experience is enjoyable " Woodrow said during an interview at Lipscomb Cars in Maidstone, England. The Geely dealership southeast of London opened within the past year.
It's part of a trend, as sales of Chinese-made autos have been surging in the United Kingdom.
In 2015, Brits bought just 384 Chinese vehicles imported into the country, according to Mobility Global, an automotive consulting firm. By 2020, that number climbed to 25,302, and last year it topped 285,000.
Despite selling just two Geely models, Lipscomb has been attracting buyers like Chris and Tracy Smith.
"It's value for money, and what you're getting in equipment as opposed to some of the top brands that are selling for probably more money, but with less accessories on it," said Chris Smith.
Analyst Will Roberts of Benchmark, an automotive consulting firm, said Chinese-made vehicles from companies like BYD are no longer a novelty in the U.K.
"I remember noticing the first BYD crossing London Bridge a couple of years ago, and that was a big moment in a way. Ever since then, it's just become second nature," Roberts said.