Leapmotor and Vauxhall enter top five as demand for affordable electric SUVs grows
Octopus Electric Vehicles has revealed its five most popular electric vehicles for the second quarter of 2026, with the newly launched Leapmotor B10 and Vauxhall Frontera making an immediate impact as newer manufacturers continue to reshape the UK electric vehicle market.
Fresh from their February launches, the Leapmotor B10 entered the rankings in second place, while the Vauxhall Frontera secured fifth. Their rapid rise reflects growing demand for practical electric SUVs that combine competitive pricing with high equipment levels.
Meanwhile, the Tesla Model Y reclaimed the top position, while the Jaecoo E5 and Omoda E5 retained third and fourth places respectively.
New manufacturers continue gaining momentum
The latest rankings highlight the increasing influence of emerging automotive brands within the UK’s rapidly evolving EV sector. Three of Octopus EV’s five best-performing models now come from newer manufacturers, demonstrating changing consumer preferences and growing competition across the electric SUV segment.
According to New AutoMotive, battery electric vehicles accounted for 30% of UK new car registrations during June, representing a 37% year-on-year increase and reinforcing the continued growth of electric mobility.
Octopus EV’s top five most popular electric vehicles – Q2 2026
- Tesla Model Y
- Leapmotor B10
- Jaecoo E5
- Omoda E5
- Vauxhall Frontera
Simplicity and value driving customer demand
Alvin Castillo, Procurement Director at Octopus Electric Vehicles, said customer priorities continue to focus on affordability, practicality and ease of ownership.
“What we’re seeing this quarter is how quickly the market moves when a car gets the fundamentals right – price, space and simplicity.
“The Leapmotor B10 has landed straight into second place because it offers exactly what a lot of drivers want: SUV practicality, strong tech, and no complicated choices. There’s one version, everything’s included, and customers just pick a colour. That simplicity really matters.”
Castillo added that the Vauxhall Frontera demonstrates how established manufacturers are also responding with competitively priced electric family vehicles, while newer brands continue competing on quality, innovation and value.
Looking ahead to Q3
Octopus EV expects further competition during the second half of the year, with new models including the Denza Z9 GT, LEPAS vehicles and Volkswagen’s forthcoming ID.Polo expected to expand consumer choice.
Castillo said continued innovation in charging technology, vehicle quality and affordability would further accelerate EV adoption across the UK.
For more information, visit Octopus Electric Vehicles.
Read more Climate Global News coverage of Transport and Technology & Innovation.
