In 2023, the Tesla Model Y made history by becoming the world’s best-selling car, a feat that had never been achieved by an all-electric vehicle before. However, in 2024, the Model Y was narrowly edged out by the Toyota RAV4, according to new global sales data from JATO Dynamics.
The Toyota RAV4 and its Chinese-market counterpart, the Wildlander, took the top spot in 2024 with 1,187,000 units sold, representing an 11% increase from the previous year. On the other hand, Tesla’s Model Y sold 1,185,000 units, experiencing a slight 3% decline from its record-breaking performance in 2023.
While the Model Y may have slipped to second place in 2024, it remains a dominant force in the automotive industry and continues to be the best-selling electric vehicle globally. This shift in consumer demand toward electric vehicles has been evident in the Model Y’s performance over the past few years.
The top five best-selling cars in 2024 also included the Toyota Corolla Cross/Frontlander (859,000 units, +18%), Honda CR-V/Breeze (854,000, +1%), and the Toyota Corolla/Levin sedan (697,000, -11%). Despite facing tough competition from traditional automakers like Toyota, Tesla’s global momentum remains strong.
With Tesla expanding production and improving accessibility in more markets, the Model Y is well-positioned to continue contending for the top spot in global automotive sales. This ongoing competition between electric and traditional vehicles highlights the evolving landscape of the automotive industry and the increasing importance of sustainability in consumer preferences.