Skywell Leaving the UK? Importer Suddenly Shuts Up Shop
On the day I write this, 6th July 2026, news is reaching the CAR news-desk that Innovation Automotive, the company that brings (brought - now past tense) Skywell to the UK has abruptly ceased trading.
The brand launched here just over a year ago and now it finds itself without an official importer. This leaves the 16 dealers and existing owners in a state of uncertainty.
Despite brutally attractive pricing and warranty, it’s BE11 has sold few examples.
It’s most successful month was une 2026 when it shifted 64 cars.
Sadly, all of Innovation Automotives staff have been made redundant.
IA were keen to protect their former supplier saying the closure shouldn’t be seen as a reflection on Skywell, who are understood to be looking for a new partner in the UK.
Innovation Automotive, also known as IA Electric Vehicles is based in Cirencester. The company’s general manager, David Clark said in a statement
“The UK is one of the most competitive new car markets in Europe… it requires continuous, significant investment from the OEM or the appointed distributor to remain competitive. The owners of Innovation Automotive – the Hmicho family – operate a successful portfolio of businesses across the Middle East, and after five years operating Innovation Automotive in the UK, have taken the decision to close… and return to the Middle East with immediate effect.”
Here’s the current situation as of 6 July 2026:
Skywell vehicles: A significant stock of spare parts remains in the UK. Innovation Automotive hopes to transfer this inventory (and warranty administration) to a new organisation in the coming weeks to support existing owners.
Remaining new stock: Most unsold vehicles (including press and demo cars) were sold to V12 Sports and Classics in June and are now being offered at heavily discounted prices — some as low as £13,995 (originally around £32,500).
DFSK: The other brand handled by Innovation Automotive faces a tougher outlook, with limited parts support and warranties no longer available for models like the EC35 electric van.
Innovation Automotive cited the high level of investment needed to compete in the tough UK EV market. The owners (Hmicho family) are refocusing on their successful businesses in the Middle East. This certainly represents a stumbling block for this particular Chinese auto manufacturer and highlights the challenges ANY car maker faces in the UK.