Volkswagen edges past Tesla to become Europe’s top EV seller in 2025

Volkswagen surpassed Tesla in sales of fully electric cars in Europe in 2025, according to data released by JATO Dynamics, marking another reversal for the US carmaker after it lost its position as the world’s top EV seller to BYD last year.

JATO said sales of Volkswagen-branded battery electric vehicles in Europe rose 56 per cent compared with 2024, supported by demand for the new ID.7. Over the same period, registrations of Tesla vehicles fell 27 per cent. Volkswagen sold 274,278 electric vehicles in Europe, while Tesla recorded sales of 236,357 units.

Tesla continues to face pressure in Europe from established regional manufacturers and an increasing number of Chinese brands, as well as challenges linked to its relatively limited and ageing model range. The company has also encountered consumer pushback in parts of Europe over public political positions taken by its chief executive, Elon Musk.

The data covered 28 European markets, including Norway, Switzerland and Britain, but excluded Bulgaria and Malta.