By the end of the year, BYD expects to have a UK network of 27 franchised dealerships, rising to a final figure of around 100 by the end of 2024.

Current partners include national groups such as Arnold Clark, LSH Auto UK and Pendragon, but BYD is also looking for regional representation with smaller operators, according to Simon Bisp, BYD UK head of sales.

Some, such as City West Country, are also signed up.

It is also planning on a ratio of two aftersales point for every sales outlet, which means a network of 200 repairers by the end of next year, all linked to a franchised dealer partner. Bisp recognises that this is a key part of the purchasing decision, particularly for fleets which are leading the demand for electric vehicles currently, and he moots the idea of collect and deliver to widen the area served for aftersales.

He also recognises that some initial sites may have to expand to accommodate BYD’s future model plans. The company is contemplating ‘physical presence’ sales locations which are not full dealerships. Plans are yet to be drawn up, but conversations are taking place with existing dealer partners.