Tesla’s sales in the European Union halved in April, while Chinese manufacturers showed growth, according to figures released by car manufacturers on Tuesday.
Hindered by the reputation of its CEO Elon Musk and an ageing product line, the American brand saw its registrations in the EU decrease by 52.6% in April and by 46.1% cumulatively since the start of the year, as per the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA).
In the first four months of 2025, Tesla’s market share fell to 1.1%, with 41,677 vehicles sold compared to 77,314 in the same period last year.
Once the leader in electric car sales until 2024, Tesla was overtaken in this category in Europe in April by ten brands, including Volkswagen, BMW, Renault, and the Chinese company BYD, according to Jato Dynamics.
Skoda’s new small electric SUV, the Elroq, topped the sales charts. The Tesla Model Y, previously a market leader, ranked ninth.
Despite Tesla’s decline, electric vehicles continue to seize the European market, increasing by 26.4% year-on-year, reaching 15.3% of sales in April, according to the ACEA.
Sales growth of electric cars varies across European countries, influenced by government incentives and tax benefits. Germany, Belgium, Italy, and Spain reported significant increases, whereas France saw a slight decrease.
Hybrid cars, which are more affordable and feature small rechargeable batteries, continue to dominate the European market with a 20.8% increase since the start of the year, drawing market share from petrol vehicles, which are down 20.6%.
A Tesla Model y car stands in front of the company's plant as Tesla CEO Elon Musk visits the company's electric car plant in Gruenheide near Berlin, eastern Germany, on March 13, 2024. Credit: Belga / AFP
Overall, Volkswagen continues to lead the European market, growing by 2.9% in April, while the number two, Stellantis, is beginning to recover, dropping only 1.1%, supported by its brands Peugeot, Jeep, and Alfa Romeo.
Chinese cars have significantly contributed to the success of electric and plug-in hybrid cars, according to Jato. Chinese brands such as BYD, MG, Xpeng, and Leapmotor have grown by 59% in these segments, compared to a 26% increase for other brands.
Tesla’s struggles are partly linked to Elon Musk’s political stances and his involvement with the DOGE Commission, which was part of the Trump administration’s initiative to drastically cut federal spending.
In the first quarter of 2025, Tesla’s sales fell by 13% year-on-year, with a notable decline in the EU, where registrations dropped 45% compared to the same period last year.
