ISTANBUL

Tesla's sales in Europe dropped 40.5% in May on a yearly basis, data showed that was released Wednesday by the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA).​​​​​​​

Billionaire Elon Musk's US-based electric vehicle company sold 8,729 units in May in the EU, ACEA's report showed, while the figure was at 14,682 in May 2024.

In Europe, including the EU, the European Free Trade Association, and the UK, Tesla's sales also fell 27.9% to 13,863 units in May, versus the same month last year.

Meanwhile, battery electric car sales soared 27.2% in May to 193,493 units in Europe.

On the other hand, the Chinese automakers increased sales 111% year-on-year in May to 65,808 units, according to data from JATO Dynamics.

Their market share also doubled to 5.9%.

“Despite the EU’s imposition of tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, its car brands continue to post strong growth across Europe,” said Felipe Munoz, global analyst at JATO Dynamics.

“Their momentum is partly due to their decision to push alternative powertrains, such as plug-in hybrids and full hybrids, to the region," he added.

Tesla's sales have been rapidly declining in Europe in recent months due to Musk's controversial political stances, his intervention in European politics and the rapid competition from Chinese brands.