Tesla UK sales drop 29% in December as Chinese rivals surge

Tesla's UK car registrations fell 29% year-on-year in December to 6,323 units, according to New AutoMotive data published by Reuters. For full-year 2025, UK sales dropped 8.9% as competition intensifies from Chinese manufacturers. Chinese rival BYD saw UK registrations jump nearly fivefold to 5,194 units in December alone, racing to close the gap. BYD overtook Tesla globally as the world's top EV maker last year after Tesla reported its second consecutive annual sales decline. The UK trend mirrors Tesla's struggles across Europe, with registrations in the Netherlands also falling 27% to 4,300 vehicles in December. Industry analysts point to an ageing Tesla lineup and CEO Elon Musk's political stance in Europe as contributing factors. Despite the decline, Tesla remains Britain's best-selling electric car brand. However, Chinese brands are gaining ground fast—SAIC's MG ranked No.2 and BYD No.6 among all car brands in Britain for December. Overall UK car registrations grew 3.5% in 2025 to 2 million units, the first time reaching pre-pandemic levels. For Nigerian EV market watchers, this global shift raises questions: Should local importers bet on Chinese EV brands gaining market share, or will Tesla's brand still command premium pricing despite declining sales?

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/01/06/tesla-uk-car-sales-drop-29-as-chinese-brands-gain-ground/