Tesla loses title as world's biggest electric vehicle maker after sales decline

Tesla delivered 1.64 million vehicles in 2025, down 9% from 2024; Chinese rival BYD sold 2.26 million and is now the top-selling EV maker.

Tesla has lost its position as the world's bestselling electric vehicle maker after sales fell for a second straight year. The company reported delivering 1.64 million vehicles in 2025, a 9% decline from 2024. Chinese automaker BYD sold 2.26 million vehicles and is now reported as the largest EV seller. The article links the sales drop to customer reactions to Elon Musk's politics, the phase-out of a U.S. tax credit, and stronger overseas competition. Reported details: - Tesla delivered 1.64 million vehicles in 2025, down 9% from the prior year. - BYD sold 2.26 million vehicles in 2025 and is reported as the biggest electric vehicle maker. - The article reports contributing factors including customer backlash over Elon Musk's politics, the expiration of a $7,500 U.S. tax credit, and increased competition from overseas models. - Tesla is under federal safety investigations and the article notes a California judge ruled the company had misled customers about safety, putting its state sales license at risk. Summary: The change reflects a notable shift in EV sales leadership and marks Tesla's second consecutive year of declining deliveries. Fourth-quarter earnings are expected in late January, and regulatory outcomes are undetermined at this time.