Politis

Chinese BYD First in Global Electric Car Sales – Overthrew Elon Musk's Tesla

Published January 3, 2026, 07:27
Chinese BYD First in Global Electric Car Sales – Overthrew Elon Musk's Tesla

The Chinese car manufacturer BYD has become the world's leading electric vehicle seller in 2025, dethroning Elon Musk's Tesla. BYD announced sales of 2.26 million electric vehicles for the year, while Tesla recorded 1.64 million sales, a decrease of over 8% compared to 2024. The decline in Tesla's sales is attributed to the abolition of tax credits in the US, as well as problems caused by Elon Musk's statements about political figures. BYD, in addition to electric vehicles, also produces hybrid cars, and its rise to the top of the market is due to the increasing demand for electric vehicles and the competitive pricing of its products. The competition in the electric vehicle market is intensifying, with BYD now being Tesla's main rival, but also with the entry of new players from Europe and China.