Tesla's leadership is over: The best-selling car is revealed

Last year's champion, the Tesla Model Y, is no longer the leader. The Model Y, which left all its rivals behind in global sales in 2023, could not maintain its place against the Toyota RAV4 in 2024. Moreover, the difference is only 0.16 percent! In other words, a small difference of about 3,000 vehicles was enough for the throne to change hands.

According to sales data collected by JATO Dynamics in 153 countries, the Toyota RAV4 became the best-selling car of 2024. With only a 1 in 1000 difference from the Model Y, the RAV4 managed to attract the attention of consumers with its hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.

The Tesla Model Y has had a tough year, both due to consumer expectations and the upcoming updated version. The new version, expected to be introduced in January 2025, has caused many buyers to postpone their decisions.

According to analysts, the sales decline may have been due not only to the model change but also to Elon Musk’s political statements. Some consumers have reevaluated their interest in the brand due to these statements.

TESLA AND CHINESE BYD ARE ALSO IN THE TOP 10

While the Model Y fell to second place, Tesla's Model 3 sedan managed to enter the top 10 from ninth place with a 10% sales increase. On the other hand, Chinese manufacturer BYD's plug-in hybrid model Qin was another notable player to enter the list.

As a result, the top spot in the global car market in 2024 is shared between electric and hybrid models. And it looks like the competition will get even fiercer next year.