The success of the Tesla Model Y is simply overwhelming. In Europe, it has established itself as the best-selling car in 2023; a first for a 100% electric model. But the SUV does not stop there and would also be the best-selling car in the world last year, according to preliminary data from JATO Dynamics, based on all major markets, but which will soon be supplemented with data from some missing countries.
“While a small number of markets have yet to release their 2023 sales figures, preliminary data collected by JATO Dynamics indicates that the Model Y is in an unassailable position, with 1.23 million units sold between January and December 2023 – which marks a 64% year-on-year increase”explains JATO Dynamics.
Toyota no longer has the prerogative of the world car
Tesla thus managed to place its Model Y ahead of the Toyota RAV4, which sold 1.07 million units in 2023. Toyota, however, remains the manufacturer that sells the most cars in the world, with a much larger range than at Tesla. The car that occupies third place on the podium is also a Toyota, since it is the Corolla sedan.
The three best-selling cars in the world in 2023. © JATO Dynamics
The signal remains no less strong. Recall that Toyota was previously a partner and investor in Tesla. The Japanese company is today considered one of the most skeptical manufacturers regarding electric cars. Just this week, Akio Toyoda, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Toyota, estimated that electric vehicles could not exceed 30% market share globally and that “the remaining 70% will be HEV (hybrid vehicles)FCEVs (fuel cell electric vehicles) and hydrogen engines” (source: Toyota Times). This is a contrarian position among the main automotive groups, only shared by a few other Japanese brands, in particular.