Tesla Model Y was Europe's best selling car in 2023, a first for an EV

Tesla's Model Y was Europe's best selling car in 2023. Not the best selling EV, mind you, but the best selling car. Its estimated 254,822 units sold across the continent outnumbered any other car model - EVs, PHEVs, ICE cars, you name it.

It's the first time in history an EV has managed this feat. It's also the first time a midsize car gets the top position, and the first time a non-European car takes the crown in the modern era. People just can't seem to have enough of the Model Y - oh, and it just got cheaper across Europe.

Coming in second was the Dacia Sandero with 235,893 sold, according to sales data representing 97% of sales in the EU, the EFTA countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland), and the UK. The other yet-unreported 3% of sales has a very low chance of upending the standings as they are now.

The Model Y was Europe's top seller in February, March, May, June, August, September, and December. The Sandero led in January, April, October, and November, with the Volkswagen T-Roc claiming the prize for itself in July.

Speaking of the T-Roc, it was No.3 for the whole year, followed by the Renault Clio and the Peugeot 208. All of these, including the Sandero, are smaller cars than the Model Y, and those are usually the winners for best selling model. In 2022, the 208 was the No.1 seller, followed by the Sandero. The tides are definitely, finally turning in favor of EVs in Europe.

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