Thatcham Research and BYD join forces to make EV ownership more sustainable 

Thatcham Research has announced a landmark 12-month agreement with BYD, the world’s largest new energy vehicle manufacturer, aimed at helping its expanding UK model range meet the highest standards for damageability and repair. The collaboration will focus on repair-friendly design, supporting affordable insurance and reduced total cost of ownership.

Beginning 1 January 2026, the partnership builds on an already strong relationship and highlights BYD’s dedication to delivering vehicles that are lower risk and more insurable. Central to the agreement is Thatcham Research consultancy in the early stages of vehicle design, helping BYD develop models that minimise damage and repair costs from low-speed collisions, so vehicles can be returned to the road quickly and cost-effectively.

Repair-related costs represented 64% of total claims in Q3 2025, amounting to £1.9bn. As vehicles become more technologically advanced, repairs often require specialist skills and equipment. By embedding ‘insurability’ as a design attribute, the partnership aims to reduce unnecessary write-offs and maximise vehicle lifespan.

“We’re delighted to deepen our relationship with BYD at such a pivotal time for the automotive industry,” said Jonathan Hewett, chief executive, Thatcham Research. “As new entrants accelerate into the UK and European markets, prioritising repairability is critical for insurer confidence and long-term sustainability.”

Additionally, Thatcham Research will advise on repair methods and training to support BYD’s investment in UK-approved repair networks and technical programmes, facilitating safe, efficient repairs for BYD’s advanced EV platforms. 

The collaboration will also include consultancy on meeting appropriate New Vehicle Security Assessment (NVSA) requirements, with Thatcham Research experts supporting BYD in the adoption of advanced anti-theft measures and robust mechanical security features.

Globally, BYD sold over three million new energy vehicles last year and is now targeting Europe as a growth engine. In September 2025, the UK became the company’s largest market outside China for the first time, backed by local infrastructure investment and a strong retail footprint. This momentum underscores BYD’s ambition to become a leading force in Britain’s transition to electric mobility.

“The UK is a priority market for BYD,” said Steve Beattie, Deputy Country Manager, BYD UK. “Our goal is to make electric mobility accessible and affordable, while collaborating with trusted British institutions like Thatcham Research, whose decades of expertise in safety, security and repair set the benchmark for the industry.”

Throughout the agreement, Thatcham Research’s Vehicle Risk Rating (VRR) system will continue to play a key role, providing insurers with robust, independent data to support confident risk assessment and underwriting for BYD’s UK models.