The Tesla Model Y Becomes the Best-Selling Electric Car in Europe Again

What a start to the year it has been for Tesla. However, the Model Y seems to have found its cruising speed, signaling better days ahead.

After an April marked by a historic breakthrough by BYD, the Tesla Model Y regained its position as the undisputed leader in electric car sales in Europe in May 2025. Although the Chinese brand came just 40 units short of Tesla, it failed to maintain its top position, once again ceding the throne to Elon Musk’s star model.

According to data released by JATO Dynamics, 1,107,517 vehicles were registered in May across 28 European markets, representing a modest increase of 2.5% compared to the previous year. In this slightly growing market, electric cars continue to gain ground, but competition is intensifying significantly, particularly driven by Chinese manufacturers.

Indeed, Chinese brands have seen their volumes double compared to May 2024, with 65,808 vehicles registered, reaching 5.9% market share compared to 2.9% last year. MG and BYD are experiencing spectacular growth, despite the price barriers imposed by the European Union.

And Tesla rises to the challenge

In this ultra-competitive context, the performance of the Model Y is even more remarkable. In the face of an increasing number of attractive models from Asia, Tesla is holding strong and maintaining a driving role in the electrification of the European market. This momentum is even more notable given that BYD had briefly taken the lead in April, becoming the first Chinese manufacturer to surpass Tesla in a month.

However, in May, Tesla managed to regain the advantage thanks to the new Model Y, which still benefits from a strong image and an unmatched charging network. In our home market, the Ecological Bonus is now secured, and Tesla France, after being reprimanded by the regulator, will be able to resume a more peaceful commercial activity.

While competition is tougher than ever, this bright spot for Tesla in May shows that the battle for electric leadership is far from over. The market is diversifying, offers are multiplying, but the Model Y remains, for now, a reference point.

ALSO READ: Tesla France accused of misleading commercial practices!