Despite not being offered in many global markets, the Tesla Model Y has emerged victorious as the reigning champion of the global automotive market. Surpassing all expectations and defying all odds, the electric SUV has been officially recognized as the best-selling car worldwide for the first quarter of 2023.
Elon Musk, the visionary CEO of Tesla, had boldly predicted that the Model Y would claim this coveted title in 2023. Many sceptics dismissed this forecast as overly ambitious, but the recent data from JATO Dynamics, a renowned London-based market research firm, has proven them wrong. With comprehensive insights gathered from 53 markets and official figures from 31 other key markets, alongside estimations for the rest of the world, JATO has confirmed the Model Y’s groundbreaking achievement.
During the first quarter, Tesla delivered a staggering 267 200 units of the Model Y, representing a remarkable 69% increase compared to the same period last year. This outstanding performance propelled the electric SUV ahead of long-standing champions such as the Toyota Hilux, RAV4, and Corolla, which have historically dominated the global sales charts.
Notably, the Corolla managed to secure just over 256 400 sales, while the Hilux followed closely behind with a volume of 214 700, and the RAV4 claimed fourth place with 211 000 units sold. It is worth highlighting that Model Y achieved exceptional success in three key markets: China, the United States, and Europe.
The momentum behind the Model Y’s triumph can be attributed to various factors. Tesla’s strategic price cuts played a significant role in stimulating demand, while the company’s expanding global footprint allowed them to reach a wider audience. These combined efforts culminated in an impressive sales surge, solidifying the Model Y’s position as an unparalleled force in the automotive industry.
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The accomplishments of the Model Y did not materialize overnight. In 2022 alone, Tesla sold an impressive 747 500 units of the electric SUV across 152 markets, marking a remarkable 91% increase compared to the previous year. This outstanding performance secured the Model Y the prestigious third position on the list of top-selling vehicles in 2022, trailing behind only the Toyota RAV4 and Corolla.
As the world increasingly embraces the transition towards electric vehicles, the Model Y stands at the forefront of this revolution. While Elon Musk’s prediction about the Model Y’s dominance in the first quarter has been unequivocally validated, the true test lies ahead. The remainder of 2023 will undoubtedly shape the narrative, as the Model Y vies for the esteemed title of the best-selling car of the entire year.
While South Africa doesn’t have any Teslas on the market, there are still plenty of EVs and hybrids for sale. Find your next one with CARmag here.
