Who Is the Biggest EV Maker in the World? BYD Overtakes Tesla
 |
| Tesla vs BYD |
BYD’s Rise to the Top
BYD sold approximately 2.26 million electric vehicles in 2025, including battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids. This put it well ahead of Tesla, which delivered 1.64 million vehicles, down 9% from the previous year.
BYD’s strength lies in its vertical integration. The company designs and produces its own batteries, semiconductors, and power electronics. Its Blade Battery technology is widely viewed as safer and cheaper than many competing lithium-ion designs, helping BYD keep costs low while scaling production.
Product diversity is another advantage. BYD sells everything from compact city cars to SUVs, luxury sedans, and electric buses. This broad lineup allows the company to capture demand across multiple price segments, particularly in cost-sensitive markets.
While China remains its largest market, BYD is expanding rapidly overseas, with growing sales in Europe, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. New factories and partnerships outside China are strengthening its global footprint.
Tesla Slips, but Remains Influential
Tesla’s recent sales decline was driven by several factors: tougher competition from Chinese automakers, softer demand in key markets, and the expiration of a $7,500 U.S. EV tax credit in late 2025. Political controversy surrounding CEO Elon Musk has also affected brand perception among some consumers.
Still, Tesla remains a major force in the industry. Investors continue to value its leadership in software, autonomous driving development, and long-term bets on robotaxis and humanoid robots.
Top 10 Global EV Makers (2025, Estimated)
 |
| Top 10 Global EV Makers |
Figures include battery electric vehicles and, where applicable, plug-in hybrids. Numbers are rounded estimates based on industry disclosures.
The Bottom Line
Right now, BYD is the biggest EV maker in the world, measured by total vehicles sold. Its rise highlights a broader trend: the EV market is no longer dominated by a single brand or country. As competition intensifies, scale, cost control, and global reach will likely matter more than ever.
Tesla remains a critical innovator, but the balance of power in electric vehicles has clearly shifted.
