The Jaecoo 7, Britain's best-selling new car in March, costs nearly double to insure compared to a Skoda Karoq, according to a CarWow study.
Many UK insurers are refusing to cover new Chinese models because they lack repair data, claims histories, and established parts supply chains.
Insurance Hurdles for Chinese Models
CarWow requested quotes for Jaecoo 7, Xpeng G6, Skywell BE11, and BYD Seal U from five insurers.
Axa refused all four, Hastings Direct only covered the BYD, and Direct Line declined two. Only Aviva insured all four.
The average annual insurance for the Jaecoo 7 was £1,103 ($1,500), roughly double the £577 ($770) for a Skoda Karoq.
The Xpeng G6 cost £936 ($1,250), much higher than the Hyundai Kona at £639 ($850).
“It’s still harder to get insurance quotes for newer Chinese models than for more established European and Japanese alternatives,” said Iain Reid from CarWow.
“The bigger issue isn’t just price; it’s availability.”
Oliver Lowe, head of product at Chery-owned Omoda and Jaecoo brands in the UK, said the automaker is working with insurers to reduce costs.
“Anything that’s risk-based is slow to change and adapt to new challenges very quickly. That’s completely understandable.”
