BYD has overtaken Tesla in global electric vehicle (EV) sales through the first nine months of 2025. The Chinese automaker delivered 1.61 million battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) from January to September, compared to Tesla’s 1.22 million units. This marks a lead of 388,000 vehicles for BYD, based on data released by both companies.
BYD’s sales increased 37% year-on-year, while Tesla’s sales declined by 6%. This is the fourth consecutive quarter where BYD has outsold Tesla in global BEV sales. The data suggests that BYD is likely to finish the year as the top-selling EV brand globally.
Tesla posted a record quarter between July and September with 497,100 global deliveries. However, it still trailed BYD, which shipped 582,500 BEVs in the same period. Tesla’s strong quarter came as U.S. customers rushed to take advantage of federal EV subsidies that expired at the end of September.
Tesla’s performance in China also received a boost with the launch of the Model Y L, a six-seat long-wheelbase SUV. The model reportedly received 120,000 orders shortly after launch. However, Tesla continues to face pressure in Europe and Australia, where competition from local and Chinese brands has intensified.
While Tesla remains a BEV-only manufacturer, BYD continues to sell both BEVs and plug-in hybrids. This strategy has helped BYD maintain high volume despite intense price competition in China. Analysts expect BYD to deliver 2.17 million BEVs by the end of 2025, while Tesla is projected to reach around 1.61 million.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has warned of a “rough few quarters” ahead. The company has shifted focus to autonomous driving and robotics, though these areas have yet to make a significant financial impact.
BYD’s lower average selling price and broad product portfolio have allowed it to capture market share rapidly. The company’s ability to sustain momentum in international markets will likely determine whether it can retain its lead into 2026.
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(Via 1,2)
