Car Companies You Might Not Have Heard Of

(Posted on 22/01/24)

As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) surges, you might have noticed an influx of new car brands popping up, especially in the world of EVs. The marketing for these cutting-edge electric rides is rapidly growing, catching the eye of consumers, and reshaping the driving experience.

Recently, there's been an influx of these lesser-known car brands making their way to the UK. You'll likely to start spotting these brands more and more. China is turning heads not just for its well-established car manufacturers but also for the numerous new brands emerging, producing some seriously innovative cars. It's not just Chinese brands making a splash – there's a significant influx from the USA too with brands like Lucid and Rivian. With a surge in new technologies and cutting-edge styles, these emerging companies are transforming the way we think about cars.

The UK is becoming a hotspot for these brands, some of which have been around for a while but are now gaining widespread recognition and popularity worldwide. As they make their mark on the British roads, these companies are not just introducing new vehicles; they're bringing a fresh perspective, blending advanced technology with distinctive styles that resonate with a global audience.

We'll take a closer look at this exciting wave of new entrants into the UK market, exploring how these car brands are bringing fresh ideas and cutting-edge technology to the forefront of the automotive industry.

 Nio

Nio is a Chinese car manufacturing company which launched in 2014. At this time, it is not available in the UK but is expected to be available at the end of 2024.

Already turning heads in China, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Germany, Nio's star players, the ET5 Saloon and estate, are set to take centre stage in UK showrooms, giving the Tesla Model 3 a run for its money in terms of size.

Something that sets Nio apart is that the cars batteries can be swapped from underneath the car by robots and replaced by a fully charged battery. Nio has over 1,300 swap stations currently in China. This has been introduced in order to get rid of the waiting time for charging your electric vehicle. They have said they want 4,000 swap station worldwide by 2025. This will be something new for the UK and will be interesting to see how it performs when it comes to the UK.

ORA

You might not be familiar with this brand, but with the spotlight shifting towards Electric Vehicles (EVs), we're witnessing an influx of new companies entering the market, all with the intention of delivering top-notch EVs. The world is evolving, and this brand is poised to make its mark. ORA, a dynamic force in Chinese car manufacturing, emerged on the scene in 2018, carving its niche as a specialist in Electric Vehicles (EVs) with a keen focus on capturing the younger buyers.

The year 2022 witnessed the introduction of the "Funky Cat" to the UK market, showcasing its popularity as a family-friendly car, although opinions on the name have been diverse. As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of new ORA models in 2024, the brand continues to make waves with its innovative approach, promising an exciting future in the realm of electric vehicles.

Check out the Funky Cat here

BYD

Entering the UK market with style in 2023, BYD, standing for "Build Your Dreams," has not only captured attention as one of China's largest EV companies. In 2023, BYD expanded its operations across Europe, establishing a presence in Denmark, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the UK.

What sets BYD apart is not just its impressive accolades but also its commitment to innovation. Their fleet, including models like the BYD Atto 3, Dolphin, and the Seal, doesn't just promise efficient and eco-friendly commuting but also boasts visually appealing design. Unlike conventional electric cars, BYD incorporates the battery seamlessly into the shell of the car, eliminating the need for a separate pack. This distinctive feature not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to a more efficient and streamlined driving experience. As BYD continues to make strides in the electric vehicle market, their blend of style, innovation, and eco-conscious engineering promises a compelling choice for discerning drivers.

Fisker 

Founded in 2007, Fisker Automotive made a significant splash with the release of their first vehicle, the "Ocean," hitting the market at the end of 2023. Although Fisker's lineup is currently limited, exciting plans have been unveiled for new models to make their debut in Europe by the end of 2024, promising a fresh wave of innovation.

In a move reminiscent of BYD, Fisker is embracing battery swapping as an innovative alternative to traditional charging methods. This forward-thinking approach aims to revolutionise the electric vehicle experience. Battery swap stations, set to debut in Europe in 2024, will enable users to exchange depleted batteries for fully charged ones in a remarkably swift four minutes. This game-changing concept aligns with Fisker's commitment to providing efficient, user-friendly solutions for electric vehicle owners.

As Fisker continues to expand its presence and introduce cutting-edge solutions, the automotive landscape can anticipate the arrival of an exciting new player committed to shaping the future of sustainable mobility.

Check out the Fisker here

Lucid

Lucid is an American company that started making electric vehicles in 2007. They focus on creating high-end electric cars known for their luxury and impressive driving range. One of their standout models is the Air saloon car, which can travel up to 500 miles on a single charge and can accelerate to 62mph in less than three seconds.

Currently, Lucid cars are only available in the United States, and they have just one model, the Air. There's no news yet about them expanding to the UK. Even though they're limited to the US market, Lucid's commitment to luxury, long-range capabilities, and high performance makes them a notable player in the electric vehicle scene. Keep an eye out for potential global expansion as Lucid continues to innovate in the electric car industry.

Rivian

Let me introduce you to Rivian, an American automotive company that kicked off in 2009. Rivian is all about electric SUVs and pickups, focusing on these vehicle types due to their significant emissions. The cool thing about their designs is that they're electric but built to handle any terrain seamlessly.

One standout from Rivian's lineup is the R1T, an all-electric pickup truck that really showcases their dedication to quality and innovation. The R1T can cover anywhere between 260 and 410 miles on a single charge, depending on the battery you go for. It's not just about the range – this electric pickup can tow a hefty 11,000 lbs and can hit 60mph in just three seconds. Rivian is making its mark in the EV industry by delivering high-quality electric vehicles that challenge the norm.

As we navigate towards a more sustainable future, Rivian is definitely one to watch for their premium electric SUVs and pickups. Keep an eye out for their continued contributions to the evolving world of electric vehicles.

Afeela

In 2022, Sony and Honda joined forces to create a new car brand, blending Sony's tech expertise with Honda's automotive know-how. This collaboration might seem unconventional, given Sony's tech background, but it's generating a lot of interest. One standout feature of their high-tech car is that you can actually drive it using a PS5 controller – a cool and futuristic twist.

Beyond gaming, this tech-savvy vehicle offers an immersive experience. Inside, it boasts a noise-cancelling system reminiscent of a cinema, creating a unique atmosphere for the driver and passengers. The anticipation reached a peak when they unveiled a prototype of their all-electric saloon car at CES in Las Vegas in early 2024.

Although the prototype has been revealed, the car isn't expected to hit the roads in the UK until 2026, and production won't kick off until 2025. This collaboration is not just about creating a car; it's about redefining the driving experience with a blend of Sony's technological brilliance and Honda's automotive expertise. Keep an eye on this partnership as it unfolds and reshapes our expectations for the future of electric vehicles.

 Lynk & Co

Lynk & Co was found in Sweeden back in 2016 and is an extension of the Chinese company Geely. The debut model, the 01, stands out as a sophisticated hybrid SUV, sharing a platform with the esteemed Volvo XC40 but is set to be a bit sportier.

What sets Lynk & Co apart is their unique approach to car acquisition. You can subscribe, lease, buy, or even borrow – a refreshing departure from the norm in the automotive world. The monthly cost isn't just about the car; it includes perks like breakdown recovery, insurance, and tax. Furthermore, the brand introduces a car-sharing function, allowing fellow Lynk & Co subscribers to access the vehicle at designated times, potentially offsetting the monthly payment. Additionally, for longer journeys, there's an option to swap your vehicle for a larger version. While currently, only one model is available, anticipation builds for the introduction of other models in the UK.

Looking ahead to 2024, Lynk & Co is gearing up for its UK debut with a revolutionary approach. Breaking away from traditional dealerships, the entire process will be web-based, with cars delivered to your doorstep and available for service pickups in order to simplify the process.