Jasmine Birtles
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How to Invest in BYD in the UK 2025
Ruby Layram
18th Jun 2025
Thinking about investing in electric vehicles? You’re not alone. With the global push toward cleaner, greener transport, electric vehicle companies are racing ahead, and BYD is one of the biggest names in the industry
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to invest in BYD as a UK investor, why it’s an exciting investment opportunity in 2025, and what the future of EVs might look like.
Also read: How to buy Tesla stocks
What is BYD?
BYD (short for Build Your Dreams) is one of the largest electric vehicle manufacturers in the world. Based in China, the company makes everything from electric buses to sleek passenger car, and they’ve become a strong rival to Tesla.
But BYD isn’t just about EVs. They’re also a major player in battery production, which is a big part of why investors are taking notice. With global demand for lithium batteries soaring, BYD is in a sweet spot.
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Why Investors Like BYD Right Now
There’s been a significant rise in interest around BYD, and it’s not just because they make cool electric cars. Here’s why:
They’re Growing Fast
BYD is expanding into Europe, Latin America, and Southeast Asia, gaining market share beyond China. They even outsold Tesla in pure EV deliveries in late 2023!
They Make Their Own Batteries
This means they’re not reliant on third parties. With tight control over their supply chain, they can keep costs low and margins healthy.
They’re in the Right Place at the Right Time
With governments pushing for net-zero targets, EVs are no longer a niche, they’re the future. BYD is well-positioned to continue dominating the market and become one of the largest car brands moving forward.
Outlook for EVs in 2025
It will come as no surprise that the EV sector is still growing, and fast.
- UK and EU regulations are tightening on petrol and diesel cars.
- EV demand is expected to grow by over 20% globally this year.
- Battery prices are coming down, making EVs more affordable.
What does that mean for investors? Simply put, companies like BYD are poised for growth, and early investors could benefit from that momentum.
How to Invest in BYD Shares from the UK
Okay, now let’s get into the how-to bit.
Even though BYD is a Chinese company, you can still invest in it from the UK through a few different routes.
Also read: How to invest in Hong Kong stocks
Option 1: Buy BYD Shares Directly on the Hong Kong Exchange (HKG: 1211)
If you want direct exposure to BYD, buying individual shares on the Hong Kong stock exchange is your best bet. This gives you direct exposure, when BYD does well, your shares reflect it. However, since BYD is listed in Hong Kong, you’ll need a broker that offers access to international stock markets.
Popular options include Trading212, Freetrade, and Saxo Bank.
To get started, you’ll need to create an account with your chosen broker and go through the usual ID checks. Once you’re set up, you can deposit your money (usually in GBP) and convert it into the appropriate currency, typically Hong Kong dollars.
Then it’s just a case of searching for BYD using its stock code: 1211.HK, and placing your buy order.
A quick word of advice: keep an eye on the currency exchange rate when converting your money. It can have a sneaky impact on your investment returns, especially if the pound moves around after you’ve invested.
Option 2: Invest in BYD Through a Fund or ETF
If buying overseas shares sounds a bit complicated, or you’re just not keen on putting all your eggs in one electric basket, you can invest in BYD through a fund or ETF instead.
ETFs allow you to invest in a whole group of companies in one go, and many of them include BYD as part of their portfolio.
A couple of good examples are the iShares Electric Vehicles and Driving Tech UCITS ETF (ECAR) and the KraneShares Electric Vehicles and Future Mobility ETF (KARS). These funds hold a mix of EV companies, battery tech firms, and clean energy stocks, including BYD.
The main advantage here is that it’s easy and low-maintenance. ETFs are available through UK investment platforms like Hargreaves Lansdown, AJ Bell, and Trading 212, and you can usually buy in just a few clicks.
It’s also a more diversified approach, which reduces your risk a bit.
That said, the flip side is that you’re not just investing in BYD, you’re investing in a whole basket of companies, so your returns won’t rise and fall with BYD alone.
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What Should You Watch Out For?
Investing in overseas companies isn’t risk-free. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
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Currency fluctuations can affect your returns.
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Chinese market regulations can change quickly and without much warning.
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Geopolitical tensions could influence share prices.
But if you’re thinking long-term and you believe in the EV revolution, BYD could be a good option to consider.
Final Thoughts
BYD is a name to watch in 2025. With strong growth, a focus on innovation, and global expansion in full swing, it’s no wonder investors are eyeing it as a serious contender in the EV space.
Whether you choose to invest directly through shares or go the ETF route for a broader exposure, make sure you understand the risks, do your own research, and never invest more than you can afford to lose.
Want to build a greener portfolio? BYD might just be the boost your investments need.
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Disclaimer: MoneyMagpie is not a licensed financial advisor and therefore information found here including opinions, commentary, suggestions or strategies are for informational, entertainment or educational purposes only. This should not be considered as financial advice. Anyone thinking of investing should conduct their own due diligence. Companies listed above are not necessarily endorsed by Money Magpie. When investing your capital is at risk.
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