BYD Overtakes Tesla as World's Top EV Seller
China's BYD surpassed Tesla in 2025 to become the world's leading seller of electric vehicles (EVs), marking the first time the Chinese automaker has outpaced its American rival in annual sales. BYD reported a 28% increase in sales, reaching 2.25 million battery-powered cars, while Tesla's sales dropped by nearly 9% to 1.64 million vehicles worldwide, according to company reports released this week.
Tesla's figures represented the second consecutive year of declining car deliveries. BYD's overall new energy vehicle sales, which include hybrid vehicles, reached 4.6 million. The company also saw a surge in exports, with a 145% increase, signaling a significant shift in the EV market landscape, according to Wired.
Tesla faced a challenging year, marked by a mixed reception to new vehicle offerings, unease surrounding Elon Musk's political activities, and increasing competition within the EV sector, according to the BBC.
The change in leadership in EV sales represents a notable moment for the industry.
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