In 2023, the Tesla Model Y became the best-selling vehicle in the world, marking a major milestone as the first electric vehicle (EV) and SUV to lead global sales. However, in 2024, the Ford F-Series reclaimed the top spot, showing how market preferences and global conditions can shift quickly.
But beyond consumer trends, geopolitical tensions—particularly the ongoing U.S.–China trade conflict and rising tariffs—may significantly influence what vehicle tops global charts next.
Why the Tesla Model Y Led Global Sales in 2023
Record-Breaking Sales
Tesla delivered around 1.22 million Model Y units in 2023, a 64% year-over-year increase, surpassing competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Corolla.
Global Appeal
With over 456,000 units sold in China and more than 255,000 in Europe, the Model Y became the top-selling vehicle across multiple major markets. Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory played a major role in fueling this growth.
However, with new U.S. tariffs on Chinese-made EVs and components looming in 2024 and 2025, Tesla’s reliance on its China manufacturing hub could face pressure—potentially reshaping its global strategy and pricing.
Shift in Consumer Preferences
The Model Y’s rise reflects growing demand for EVs and SUVs. Consumers are prioritizing:
- Sustainability
- Practicality
- Cutting-edge tech
Tesla hit all three with the Model Y.
Ford F-Series Regains the Lead in 2024
Despite Tesla’s rise, the Ford F-Series returned to the top in 2024, showing the enduring strength of trusted nameplates.
Strong Brand Loyalty
Ford continues to dominate truck sales thanks to decades of reliability and performance.
Diverse Lineup
The F-Series now includes hybrid and electric variants like the F-150 Lightning, appealing to a wider range of buyers.
Market Recovery
As post-pandemic economies stabilized, demand for trucks surged—especially in the U.S.
Additionally, Ford has emphasized more localized production, reducing exposure to the U.S.–China tariff war and aligning with American policy incentives for domestic manufacturing. This may have contributed to its regained sales lead.
Global Tensions Could Shift the Race
The competition for the best-selling vehicle in the world now isn’t just shaped by market demand—it’s also influenced by international politics. The current U.S.–China tariff tensions, particularly those targeting EVs and critical auto components, could:
- Disrupt global supply chains
- Increase production costs
- Influence manufacturing decisions by Tesla and other automakers
As governments promote localized production and impose stricter trade policies, global vehicle rankings may increasingly reflect national policy, not just consumer preference.
For more on this evolving trend, visit our article on the statistics of the most sold car in the world, where we break down global sales patterns and forecasts.
Tesla vs. Ford: Global Sales and Market Presence (2023–2024)
| Metric | Tesla | Ford |
| Total Global Vehicle Sales (2023) | Approximately 1.85 million units | Approximately 4.4 million units |
| Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) Sales | 1.85 million units (100% of sales) | Approximately 165,000 units (3% of sales) |
| Global BEV Market Share (2023) | 19.1% | Data not specified |
| Top Markets | United States, China, Europe | United States, Canada, Europe |
| Most Sold Model | Model Y (over 1.16 million units) | F-Series Pickup Trucks (750,789 units) |
| Manufacturing Footprint | United States, China, Germany | United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe |
| Revenue Per Vehicle (2023) | Approximately $41,700 | Approximately $38,600 |
| Profit Per Vehicle (2023) | Higher than Ford | Lower than Tesla |
Impact of U.S.–China Trade Tensions
The ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China have significant implications for both Tesla and Ford:
- Tesla: With a substantial portion of its production based in China, Tesla faces challenges due to increasing tariffs and regulatory hurdles. These factors could affect its pricing strategy and profit margins in various markets.
- Ford: While Ford’s exposure to Chinese manufacturing is less than Tesla’s, it still relies on global supply chains that could be disrupted by trade policies. Additionally, Ford’s plans for expansion in China might be impacted by these tensions.
Final Thoughts
Tesla’s Model Y changed the game in 2023. But in 2024, Ford’s strategy, brand trust, and smart production moves gave it the edge. With tariffs and trade tensions rising, the battle for the top spot is more complex than ever—blending market demand with policy, production, and geopolitics.Who will lead in 2025 best selling car in the world? Stay tuned.
