BYD offers free servicing in lieu of grant discounts

BYD is offering a five-year servicing package on selected new and approved used electric models, following uncertainty surrounding eligibility for the UK Government’s Electric Car Grant.

The car maker's initiative is available on the Dolphin Surf, Dolphin and Atto 3 models. It covers scheduled maintenance and labour.

The brand has also increased its power battery warranty to eight years and 155,342 miles, for all electric and plug-in hybrid cars sold in the UK.

Steve Beattie, sales and marketing director at BYD UK, said: “We understand that customers are looking for more than just savings upfront – they want lasting value and assurance. While we may not currently be part of the Electric Car Grant, we didn’t want to wait to show our commitment.

"This five-year servicing offer is our way of giving back to drivers who choose BYD and supporting them well beyond the showroom. That includes the Approved Used market – which plays a vital role in accelerating EV adoption and strengthening the value of our vehicles over time.”

BYD said it has formally applied to be included in the government-backed scheme, but it may not be immediately eligible. To qualify for scheme, electric cars must have a recommended retail price (RRP) of £37,000 or less, with two levels of grant available depending on the carmaker’s sustainability standards.

The ‘greenest’ vehicles in band one will receive up to £3,750, with band two vehicles receiving up to £1,500.

The electric car grant (ECG) requires manufacturers to have committed to a verified science-based target (SBT) and have embodied carbon scores below a certain threshold.

Vehicles made by manufacturers who have not set an SBT will not be eligible for the scheme, says the DfT. 

Citroen is the first brand to confirm eligibility, with its e-C3, e–C4, e-C5 and the e-Berlingo all qualifying for the £1,500 grant.