Tesla’s sales in Europe dropped sharply by 49% in April compared to last year, even though battery-electric vehicle sales in the region grew by nearly 28%.
The recent upgrade to Tesla’s Model Y has failed to boost the brand’s sales or reputation in Europe, according to data from the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA).
Overall car sales in Europe fell slightly by 0.3%, with electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles showing the strongest growth. Tesla’s market share in Europe halved from 1.3% to just 0.7% over the past year. This marks the fourth consecutive month of declining sales for Tesla in the region.
The drop is linked to several factors: backlash against CEO Elon Musk’s political views, a lukewarm reception for the new Model Y, and rising competition from European and Chinese automakers. Chinese brands like BYD have overtaken Tesla in pure electric vehicle sales in Europe for the first time.
In April, total car sales in the EU, UK, and European Free Trade Association countries fell to 1.07 million units, down from growth in March. While brands like SAIC Motor and Mitsubishi saw sales increases, others like Mazda experienced declines.
Despite the overall dip in car sales, electric vehicle registrations surged. Battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, and hybrid electric cars accounted for nearly 60% of passenger car registrations in April, up from 47.7% the previous year.
Among major European markets, car sales rose in Spain and Italy but declined in France, Germany, and the UK, where registrations dropped by over 10%. Tesla’s sales struggles highlight the challenges it faces in maintaining its foothold amid shifting consumer preferences and intensifying competition.
READ MORE:
