Drama in Germany: Tesla Model Y outsells Volkswagen Golf
The German market has left behind one of those images with a strong symbolic meaning. Tesla has managed to place two of its models among the country’s best-selling cars, a result that once again highlights the brand’s ability to concentrate a large portion of its registrations at certain times of the year. However, to understand the full significance of these figures, it’s necessary to look beyond monthly results.
The star performer was the Tesla Model Y, which managed to surpass the Volkswagen Golf, one of the most popular models in the German market. In September, the Tesla Model Y saw 8,038 new registrations in Germany, compared to 6,580 units for the Volkswagen Golf. The gap between the two models was 1,458 units, enough to place Tesla’s electric SUV at the top of the monthly rankings, ahead of all other models regardless of their propulsion system.
The Model Y’s results weren’t the only notable figures. The Tesla Model 3 also achieved significant sales, with 4,512 registrations during the month. Combined, the sales of these two models brought Tesla’s total to 12,550 units, although the brand’s overall figure was slightly higher at 12,552 registrations when including other models.
Tesla sees a surge in registrations, but the Volkswagen Golf maintains a large lead overall
The cumulative figures provide a more accurate picture of the situation. From January to September this year, the Volkswagen Golf had 65,445 registrations in Germany, 4.12% more than last year, and these numbers are more than double those of the Tesla Model Y, which recorded 29,464 units but still saw a year-on-year increase of 219%.
The comparison also helps put Tesla’s results in perspective. The Model Y has had an amazing month, but its cumulative sales figures remain below those of one of the most established compact cars in the German market. On the other hand, its growth is rapid, all on the eve of the approval of the TAD system, formerly known as FSD, which will undoubtedly be another strong selling point for Tesla in the U.S.