Trends: New Chinese Brands Making Inroads into UK Business Leasing Sector

For insurers working with BI, Commercial or Fleet customers, this shift from European and Japanese brands is worth noting;

Business lease customers are increasingly turning to newer vehicle manufacturers, with the latest data from Leasing Options revealing that electric and hybrid-focused brands are making significant progress in the company car market.

The CHANGAN DEEPAL S07 accounted for 6.15% of all business vehicle leases during the latest reporting period, making it the most popular model among business customers. The OMODA 5 followed with a 4.97% share, while the Alpine A290 completed the top three with 4.81%.

The rankings highlight changing preferences, with several newer manufacturers competing alongside established automotive brands. Electric and hybrid vehicles feature strongly throughout the list, reflecting continued interest in vehicles that offer lower running costs alongside modern technology and equipment.

Top 10 most popular business car models so far this year

Mike Thompson, Chief Operating Officer at Leasing Options, said, “Businesses are still keeping a close eye on costs, but they also need vehicles they can depend on. Leasing gives companies access to newer models without tying up significant capital, which is one of the reasons demand remains strong across many of the UK’s largest commercial centres.

“The data also highlights how businesses are increasingly looking beyond traditional fleet choices, with newer manufacturers and efficient vehicles gaining traction as companies look for value, practicality and lower running costs.”

Mike Thompson’s Top Three Tips

1)       Assess your budget

“Assessing your budget before leasing a company car is essential to ensure that the costs align with your finances. Leasing can provide flexibility with lower upfront costs compared to purchasing, but it’s important to account for ongoing monthly payments, insurance, maintenance, and any additional fees.”

  2)      Consider fuel costs

“Considering fuel costs is vital for managing your ongoing expenses. Fuel efficiency varies greatly between different vehicles, and choosing a car with better fuel economy can lead to significant savings over time.”

3)     Consider practicality

It is also crucial to ensure the vehicle meets your business’s specific needs. Evaluate factors such as cargo space, seating capacity, and ease of accessibility to ensure the car is suitable for daily operations, employee comfort, and transporting goods or equipment.”

For more information about Leasing Options and business leasing, please visit: https://www.leasingoptions.co.uk/business-car-leasing