Chinese Carmakers Rush to Upgrade Security on UK Models Amid Rising Theft Rates

Chinese automotive brands are rapidly adapting their vehicles for the UK market, responding to critical security demands from British insurers in the face of soaring car theft rates. Modifications are centred on strengthening locking devices, with insurers requiring enhanced features to address the UK’s higher incidence of car crime compared to China.

Statistics reveal that vehicle theft is reported at a rate of 11 per hour across the UK, a stark contrast to the much lower rates seen under China’s strict regime. As a result, manufacturers such as Chery have implemented both mechanical enhancements, such as additional steel around door locks and lockable wheel nuts, and software improvements, including intrusion detection systems to guard against unauthorised entry.

Sales of Chinese cars have accelerated in Britain this year, accounting for around one in every twelve new cars sold. Brands like MG, BYD, and newcomers Chery have already sold approximately 20,000 vehicles since introducing their latest models. Before these cars reach UK showrooms, new models undergo rigorous risk assessments for insurance purposes, including intensive testing such as the two-minute “attack test”. This has prompted swift upgrades to fortify Chinese prototypes against potential thieves.

Experts from Thatcham Research, a leading automotive risk assessment body, highlight that features like immobilisers, door shielding, and enhanced software are now a priority for Chinese manufacturers targeting UK consumers. These improvements often do not require major reengineering, enabling swift integration into existing models. Chery executives point to dedicated regional R&D centres and increased factory agility, which have been key to meeting British requirements efficiently.

Cost competitiveness has also played a part, with Chinese automotive workers typically doing six-day weeks at lower wages than their Western counterparts. This has allowed Chinese companies to price their vehicles more aggressively, creating additional momentum behind their growth in the UK market.

Other manufacturers, including BYD, have underscored their collaborations with local security experts and insurance agencies to ensure their vehicles satisfy British safety standards. BYD has prioritised incorporating both hardware and software-based anti-theft measures tailored specifically for the UK driving environment.

While British authorities may remain alert to cyber-security concerns posed by imported vehicles, the focus for Chinese brands is firmly on overcoming swiftly the challenges of physical theft. The highest profile target for thieves remains the Ford Fiesta, with more than 4,000 reported stolen last year, underlining that vehicle crime is a widespread problem affecting a variety of makes.

Industry observers note that the current demands on Chinese manufacturers are reminiscent of the challenges faced by Japanese and Korean brands in previous decades. With UK safety and security standards among the world’s most stringent, adaptation and innovation have become the hallmarks of those keen to succeed in this competitive market.