Octopus Electric Vehicles has agreed a landmark deal with China’s BYD as the electric carmaker launches in the UK.

L-R: Oliver Boots of Octopus Electric Vehicles and Michael Shu from BYD Europe

Octopus will purchase 5,000 EVs from BYD for its UK customers over the next three years, including the Atto 3 electric crossover, which is now on sale in the UK.

It’s BYD’s largest sales deal to date – and the firms could expand the agreement if interest is high.

Octopus will offer BYD’s EVs as part of its full package salary sacrifice offering – it’s been signed up by the carmaker as its preferred salary sacrifice provider.

The deal will enable drivers to save 30% or more off the upfront cost of the cars, making it the cheapest way to lease BYD’s EVs.

The Atto 3 launches this month and has been praised for its spaciousness, comfort and efficiency. Its 60.5kWh battery delivers an official 260-mile range while the 204hp electric motor enables a 0-62mph time of just over seven seconds.

Michael Shu, general manager and managing director, BYD Europe and International Cooperation Division, said: “This is an exciting new chapter for BYD as we bring our latest products and leading technologies to customers in the UK, as shown in our innovative range of electric passenger cars, starting with the BYD Atto 3. BYD staunchly believes in partnerships with like-minded organisations, and our shared commitment to eMobility and sustainable innovation for a greener future, endorses our mutual aims.”

Octopus EV now has over 85 cars available to customers – covering every model available in the UK and all offered on a sal-sac package that includes the car, charge point installation and specialist EV energy tariffs.

Oliver Boots, chief commercial officer at Octopus Electric Vehicles, commented: “Being able to partner with BYD as they launch in the UK is a real milestone. They’re a global leader and we’re looking forward to being able to offer our 5* Trustpilot service to customers – accelerating our growth and moving us another step closer to zero-emission transport in the UK.”