Tesla UK sales drop 19% as Chinese EV rivals surge and market demand cools | investingLive

Tesla’s UK sales dropped sharply in November, with registrations falling 19% year-on-year to 3,784 units, according to preliminary data from research group New AutoMotive.

The decline follows an even steeper halving of sales in October and reflects Tesla’s continued loss of momentum in Europe as Chinese EV makers, led by BYD, expand rapidly with cheaper, newer models. BYD’s UK registrations more than tripled last month.

Analysts say Tesla is struggling to draw buyers in a more competitive EV landscape, where legacy automakers and Chinese rivals are offering more compelling price points and upgraded designs. The brand has also faced reputational headwinds linked to CEO Elon Musk’s political profile, contributing to erosion in market share.

Across the broader UK car market, total new registrations slipped 6.3% year-on-year to 146,786 units in November, highlighting softer demand heading into year-end.