Tesla Maintains Strong Lead in California’s EV Market

Tesla continues to dominate California’s electric vehicle market, commanding a 54.5% share despite facing increased competition.

According to recent California New Car Dealers Association (CNCDA) data, the automaker sold 159,619 vehicles through Q3 2024, though this represents a decline from 182,689 units in the same period last year.

While Tesla experienced its first full year of registration declines, dropping 8.5% in market share, competitors still trail significantly.

Hyundai holds second place with just 5.6% of the market, followed by BMW at 5%. Traditional automakers have increased their combined share of battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales to 40.2%, with Kia, BMW, and Hyundai each gaining approximately 1.3-1.4% market share.

Tesla’s Model Y continues to lead the pack with 105,693 registrations, significantly outperforming its sibling Model 3’s 37,219 units.

The Model Y topped both the light truck and luxury compact SUV categories, while the Model 3 dominated the near-luxury segment.

Tesla’s premium offerings also performed well, with the Model S leading the luxury and high-end sports car category, and the Model X securing second place among luxury mid-size SUVs.

The CNCDA notes that Tesla’s recent sales pattern may present an opportunity for traditional automakers as consumers explore new EV options.

However, given Tesla’s considerable lead—nearly ten times the sales of its closest competitor—significant changes would be needed to seriously challenge its market dominance.