Tesla aims for 1.8 million electric cars in 2023

Confident in its ability to achieve 50% growth per year, Elon Musk launches Tesla into the race to reach 1.8 million electric vehicle sales.

Just after 2022 ended, could 2023 be another breakout year for the American brand? “2022 has been a fantastic year” Elon Musk commented during the earnings presentation last night, “we delivered over 1.3 million electric vehicles, with a 17% margin, more than most automakers, perhaps all automakers even.”

While Tesla Model 3s or Model Ys are everywhere on the roads, the company’s cash flow is also visibly increasing. Tesla generated $71.5 billion in revenue, resulting in $12.6 billion in net profit (€11.5 billion).

To win, the price war?

Buoyed by its results, the American brand can look at 2023 optimistically. Elon Musk is confident in its goal to maintain an average annual growth of 50% — a target set in 2020. Over the past two years, he has even exceeded this goal, and now aims for 1.8 million electric cars in 2023. If he reaches this figure, Tesla would be close to the Renault group (2.05 million in 2022).

But can Tesla really reach it? “Demand exceeds production” declares Elon Musk, “price makes a difference”. Indeed, the Model 3 saw a spectacular price increase in 2022, before returning almost to its original price this January. But it’s different with the Model Y, which defies the inflationary market trend by being much cheaper than before, now at €46,990 and eligible for the ecological bonus.

New Model 3, Cybertruck, and future Model 2?

Last year, Elon Musk calmed the excitement of enthusiasts by stating that Tesla would focus on its current lineup. This means prioritizing its bread and butter, the Model 3, which is to receive an update after 6 years on the market. Named “Project Highland,” this facelift has already been spotted on the roads in recent days.

Tesla will also finally release its electric pickup, the Cybertruck, by this summer. This massive vehicle with a raw steel body will prioritize North American roads first. However, 2023 might also see the launch of the new generation, the famous compact car priced at $25,000 (or euros), which the CEO promised back in 2020 for this year. Tesla will provide more details on this “developing platform” on March 1st.

Read also: Tesla will build two new battery factories in Nevada