BYD is working with Thatcham Research to make its electric vehicles easier and cheaper to repair, as fleets and insurers grapple with rising EV repair and write-off costs.
Repair-related costs accounted for 64% of total motor claims in Q3 2025, equating to £1.9bn, underlining why repairability is becoming a growing fleet concern. Under a 12-month agreement, Thatcham Research will be involved earlier in BYD’s vehicle design process, helping reduce damage and repair costs, particularly from low-speed collisions, and embedding “insurability” as a core design principle.
“We’re delighted to deepen our relationship with BYD at such a pivotal time for the automotive industry,” said Jonathan Hewett, chief executive at Thatcham Research. “As new entrants accelerate into the UK and European markets, prioritising repairability is critical for insurer confidence and long-term sustainability.”
The move comes as FWD Consulting estimates UK businesses face £461m a year in EV write-off costs, driven by limited repair capability and rising collision volumes.
“The UK is a priority market for BYD,” said Steve Beattie, deputy country manager at BYD UK, adding that the aim is to make electric mobility “accessible and affordable” for the long term.
Explore BYD's EV range here.