BYD could overtake Tesla as global leader in electric vehicle sales

While BYD has yet to make a significant impact in the Philippine electric vehicle (EV) market, the Chinese automaker has been tearing it up in global markets. So much so that BYD is on the verge of overtaking Tesla as the global EV sales leader.

BYD Han

Australia's Car Expert reported - citing Bloomberg - that BYD sold 431,603 EVs globally in the third quarter of this year, which is said to be a 23 percent growth from the previous quarter. That is relatively close to Tesla's EV sales figure of 435,059 during the same period.

BYD offers a wide range of EVs, from the Dolphin electric hatch to the Han full-size luxury EV - both of which are made available in the Philippine market. What's more impressive is that BYD is closing the numbers to Tesla despite not selling its EVs in the US market. On the other hand, Tesla sells its full range of EVs in China (Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y).

Tesla Model 3 facelift

Tesla could strike back with the new Model 3 facelift, which is now available in other markets like China. The all-electric midsize sedan arrived with a sharper look and improved EV capabilities such as longer range and faster charging. The upcoming Tesla Cybertruck could also help the brand sell more units in the coming years. 

Here in the Philippine market, BYD is looking to aggressively expand its presence under the new distributorship of AC Motors, the automotive arm of Ayala Corporation. 

BYD has a chance to beat Tesla in terms of EV global sales

The EV models made available to Filipino car buyers include the Han, Tan, and Dolphin. Another model that will look to contribute to the brand's global EV sales will be the Atto 3. It is an all-electric compact crossover that promises to deliver a range of as much as 500 km.

As of this writing, Tesla has no plans of entering the Philippine market. Although, Tesla EVs have already made their way to the ASEAN region, with the Model 3 and Model Y now available in Thailand.

Catch the latest car sales report at Philkotse.com.