Which Automaker, Tesla Or Toyota, Sold The Most Cars Worldwide Last Year?

As the final sales results for 2024 come in, it’s clear that the Tesla Model Y and Toyota RAV4 are competing for the title of best-selling car in the world. However, many markets have not yet reported, so no clear winner has emerged.

Data collected so far by Motor1 includes 90 markets. According to these results, a total of 1,175,093 Tesla Model Ys were sold in 2024, a 4 percent drop in sales compared to 2023.

Europe, China, and the US together accounted for 92 percent of the car’s total sales. Despite the drop in sales, the Model Y’s numbers are still impressive, especially given the growing competition in China.

According to preliminary results, Tesla is “pulling” the Toyota RAV4 by the throat with 1,171,364 units sold, only 3,729 fewer than the Model Y. According to the data collected, the Japanese SUV managed to increase its global sales by 10 percent. This strong growth is impressive considering the age of the car. Namely, this year a completely new model will be introduced.

Despite the current lag, it seems that Toyota has more chances to “win.” Namely, data is still missing from some of the key markets where Toyota could achieve significant sales, while Tesla does not expect large numbers in them. This is easily understandable since Tesla has so far focused its sales mainly on developed markets, while Toyota is truly global. Therefore, it is obvious that the RAV4 will overtake the Model Y in markets that have not yet been covered, such as Central Asia, most African countries, Bolivia, El Salvador, Honduras, Caribbean countries, and islands in the Pacific Ocean.

• Also See: Toyota Has Sold More Than 30 Million Electrified Vehicles