Summary
Tesla’s sales in Europe collapsed in April, plunging over 50% in several countries despite an overall 23.9% rise in EU EV sales.
Sweden saw an 81% drop, the Netherlands 73.8%, and France 59%.
The refreshed Model Y failed to revive interest as buyers turned to alternatives, citing CEO Elon Musk’s controversies or superior competitors.
Tesla’s Q1 EU market share fell from 2.4% to 1.3%. Including the UK and EFTA, sales dropped 37.3%. Globally, 2024 was Tesla’s worst delivery year in two years, raising doubts about a near-term recovery.
Europeans will forget.
Even if they do, Tesla is being unseated as the “default” electric car in the consumer mind, which will persist even if they forget why.
The only reason they may never come back is just how good BYD alternative models are. Tesla doesn’t have the edge anymore, and it was coasting on brand loyalty and reputation.
Well, that reputation is a Seig Heil now.