Jessica BirdMore employers are adding vehicles from new entrant manufacturers to their company car choice lists, as businesses continue to expand electric and hybrid options for employees, according to new research from the 2026 Arval Fleet and Mobility Observatory.
The study found that 26% of fleets already include vehicles from newer brands on their company car policies, while a further 21% are considering adding them in future.
Another 23% said they are waiting for these manufacturers to become more established before introducing them to employee choice lists.
Arval said the findings highlight how newer automotive brands, particularly those entering the UK market with competitively priced electric and hybrid models, are beginning to influence employer company car strategies.
John Peters, head of Arval Mobility Observatory in the UK, said: “The arrival of new entrants to the UK car market, largely from China, has been one of the most visible trends in the industry over recent years.
“These companies have quickly established not just a substantial market presence but in some cases have also created large dealership networks.
“Generally, they have concentrated on a high value proposition in the electric and hybrid sectors, which can make them very attractive to fleets, with relatively low pricing and lease rates for the models on offer.
“Our research shows this approach is already having a significant impact in the fleet sector, with one in four businesses surveyed adding them to choice lists. Also, we know anecdotally from our experience at Arval UK, that drivers opting for these cars tend to be happy with their decisions.”
The research also suggests employers remain cautious about moving too quickly, with 12% saying they do not expect to include these brands on company car policies in the foreseeable future.
Compared with the same research conducted in 2025, the proportion of businesses already including new entrant brands on choice lists increased from 23% to 26%.
Arval said the trend reflects the growing role electric vehicles are playing within employee benefits and company car schemes, as employers look to balance affordability, driver choice and sustainability targets.
