Tesla has lost its position as the world’s top electric vehicle seller after reporting weaker deliveries, while China’s BYD recorded stronger growth and expanded its global lead in EV sales.
Tesla’s deliveries declined compared with the previous year, reflecting intensifying competition, pricing pressure, and uneven demand across key markets. The company has also faced challenges linked to shifting consumer preferences, increased competition from lower-cost rivals, and delays around new product rollouts.
BYD’s rise has been driven by robust domestic demand in China and expanding international sales, supported by a broad lineup of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Analysts say BYD’s pricing strategy and scale have helped it gain market share as competition in the EV sector accelerates.
Elon Musk has pointed to future technologies, including autonomous driving and robotaxi services, as key to Tesla’s long-term strategy. Observers note that the shift in global rankings highlights a changing EV landscape, with Chinese manufacturers playing an increasingly dominant role.
