For the first time ever, Tesla has overtaken Audi in global sales.
In 2024, Tesla sold 1.79 million vehicles, edging past Audi’s 1.67 million, according to Bloomberg and Boosted.
A Tough Year
The year wasn’t smooth sailing for either automaker.
Tesla saw a modest 1% drop in sales, while Audi faced a steeper 12% decline, selling 224,000 fewer cars than in 2023.
Audi struggled in key markets like Germany, Sweden, China, and North America. Even in Denmark, its sales fell by 720 vehicles compared to the previous year. Notably, Audi’s electric car sales took an 8% hit, showing the fierce competition in the EV market.
Both Tesla and Audi are fighting back with fresh models to capture market attention.
Tesla recently launched its updated Model Y, while Audi has a lineup of new models set to hit showrooms in 2024, including one designed specifically for China.
Audi’s challenges stem from growing competition from Chinese EV makers, a slowing global economy, and rising energy prices, all of which are making it harder for the German automaker to keep pace.
What’s Next for Tesla?
Tesla’s win is impressive, but the competition in the EV market is heating up. Established brands and new players are investing heavily, creating a race for dominance.
Meanwhile, Toyota has made waves by stepping back from hydrogen cars. Hiroki Nakajima, the company’s Chief Technology Officer, told the Financial Times, "I no longer see a bright future for hydrogen vehicles."
