Tesla Model Y becomes world’s best-selling car – report

Move over, Toyota Corolla – the world has a new best-selling car, and it’s electric.

The Tesla Model Y topped the global sales charts for the first quarter of 2023, according to data compiled by automotive industry expert Felipe Muñoz of market research firm JATO Dynamics and published by Motor1.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk said in August 2022 he expects Model Y will become the world’s best-selling vehicle by 2023, although it remains to be seen whether the electric SUV can hold onto the top spot for the rest of the year.

The data shows that Tesla sold 267,200 Model Ys made in the US, China and Germany. This is an increase of about 69% over the same period last year.

In second place is Toyota Corolla and related Chinese market Levin, Allion and Lingshang models, including all available body types, with sales of 256,400 units. Sales fell 29% in China and 10% in the US, helping the Tesla storm pass.

The Toyota Hilux came in third place with sales of 214,700, followed by RAV4/Wild Man (211,000) and camry (166,200).

Note here that this report is based on JATO data for 53 markets, official data/forecasts for another 31 markets, and estimates for the rest of the world.

Given the narrow gap between the Model Y and the Corolla and the Corolla’s greater popularity in developing markets, it’s possible that the Corolla could still stay in the lead.

Grandfather Muñoz reported earlier this year that the Tesla Model Y had won the title World’s third best selling car in 2022 with sales of 747,500, up 91% year over year.

This report is based on data sourced not only from the country’s official auto sales associations but also local contacts, automakers and estimates. It covers a total of 152 countries, omitting Cambodia and Papua New Guinea.

The Model Y trails the Toyota Corolla/Levin (sales 991,600, sedans only) and the RAV4/Wildlander (sales 1,015,700).

THAN: Everything Tesla Model Y