Chinese car brand Xpeng is taking its UK sales operation in-house, less than two years after appointing International Motors as its official UK distributor.
Xpeng said it would continue to draw on International Motors’ infrastructure and expertise in local market distribution.
In the year to July, Xpeng sold 930 cars in the UK, up 438% year on year, giving it a market share of 0.07%. According to its UK website, it now has 23 sales outlets.
Xpeng has not released sales targets for UK long term. Research carried out by ICDP might give an indication. It found a “general acceptance” among established carmakers that in a 10,000 plus sales market it would be more effective in terms of market share and operating costs take a direct sales route instead of using an independent distributor.
Dealer groups representing the brand include JCT600 (pictured), Cox Motor Group, Ron Brooks, Marshall, Brindley, Park’s and Peter Cooper.
Xpeng said the move would strengthen its UK organisation and enable greater investment in brand development, its retailer network and customer experience, as well as supporting the introduction of its expanding model range.
In the UK Xpeng currently sells the G6 mid-size electric SUV. In the coming months, it will launch the X9 seven-seater and the L03 next-generation SUV coupé.
Elvis Cheng, general manager of Xpeng North Eastern Europe, said: “The establishment of our UK National Sales Company marks an important next step in Xpeng’s long-term commitment to the market.
“Xpeng recognises International Motors’ important contribution and valuable role in successfully launching Xpeng in the UK and creating strong foundations for future growth.
“By combining direct Xpeng leadership and investment with International Motors’ proven local capabilities, we are creating the right structure to scale the brand, strengthen the customer experience and bring our next generation of intelligent vehicles to more customers across the UK.”
William Brown, managing director of International Motors, said: “This agreement is good news for Xpeng, its retailers and its customers in the UK.
“It gives the brand greater direct support from Xpeng globally, while preserving the continuity, infrastructure and local expertise that International Motors has built over its 50-year history.”
