What is the best selling electric car in the US
Best-Selling Electric Vehicles
EV Sales Top 1 Million for the First Time
2023 was a record-setting year for electric cars in the U.S. While headlines in the last couple of months of the year were focused on slowing demand and increasing dealer inventory, new EV sales reached almost 1.2 million vehicles across the country, according to industry watcher Cox Automotive. As a share of the overall market for new vehicles, EVs represented 7.6 percent of the total market, up from 5.9 percent with fourth-quarter numbers hitting 8.1 percent, a 40-percent increase over the same time in 2022.
While the slowdown in electric vehicle growth is real, its important to note a couple of things: EV sales are not decreasing, theyre just growing at a slower rate than before. And Cox forecasts that EVs will eclipse 10 percent market share in the U.S. this year. Plus, if youre in the market for a new EV, higher dealer inventories should mean better deals; even best-selling models are now readily available, meaning that youre likely to get a juicy discount instead of paying MSRP or over.
What were the best-selling EVs in the U.S. last year? Lets have a look.
10. Ford F-150 Lightning
Weve sung the praises of the Ford F-150 Lightning many times here at GreenCars. Its a vehicle that revolutionized the pickup truck, the most popular vehicle format in America. With a wide range of trim levels, from entry-level work truck through to fully-laden luxury Platinum models, theres a Lightning for almost any taste, and they all come with impressive performance, standard all-wheel drive, and great tech features. 24,165 Lightnings were sold in 2023, and we expect that number to rise with the introduction of the new Flash trim, which has all of the most desirable features at an attractive price. If you need to tow frequently, expect to lose some range or consider a hybrid F-150 instead.
9. Tesla Model X
Nearly a decade old, the falcon-winged large SUV from Tesla still sells in decent numbers. A recent facelift has kept the Model X relevant with a much-improved interior with horizontal touchscreen and the availability of an ultra-high performance Plaid model. While its EPA estimated range was recently downgraded after customer complaints, between 300 and 335 miles is still more than enough for most uses. 24,700 drivers purchased a Model X in 2023, seduced by its performance, unique design, and high-tech features.
8. Tesla Model S
Arguably the first luxury electric car, the Tesla Model S sedan found an estimated 26,700 buyers in 2023. A simplified model range, updated styling, and a the stunningly fast high-performance Plaid model have kept the Model S current despite the fact that it hasnt had a complete redesign since its introduction. The latest models are much better-built than earlier versions, and the new interior in particular is a huge step up, with much better materials, a more intuitive interface, dual wireless phone chargers, and other upgrades. The EPA-estimated range of up to 405 miles is hard to reach, particularly in the cold but its still leagues more than most of the Model S competitors, which struggle to reach 300 miles.
7. Hyundai Ioniq 5
With a choice of two- or all-wheel drive, two battery sizes, and a reasonable starting MSRP not to mention a gorgeous, spacious interior and unique looks the Hyundai Ioniq 5 remains one of our favorite EV crossovers here at GreenCars, and 33,918 American buyers in 2023 agree. Built on a sophisticated EV-only platform, the Ioniq 5 is impressively efficient, sports-car fast, and is also one of the fastest-charging EVs on the market thanks to its 800-volt architecture.
6. Volkswagen ID.4
Now made in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the Volkswagen ID.4 saw its sales increase in 2023 to 37,789 units in some part thanks to its eligibility for the $7,500 federal tax incentive, which helped make it more affordable to more people. We like this peoples electric SUV, which has a roomy interior, good driving dynamics, and a choice of two battery sizes as well as rear- or all-wheel drive. For the 2024 model year, Volkswagen is addressing some of the vehicles shortcomings to make it even better, adding more power and improved range along with a better infotainment system.
5. Ford Mustang Mach-E
While the Mustang Mach-E doesnt resemble the two-door coupe Mustangs that we may be used to, with their rumbling V8 engines, its certainly a performer, both in terms of its 0-60 times and its sales. 40,771 new Mach-Es found homes in 2023, attracting buyers with their sporty styling, spacious interior, vertical-format touchscreen, and entertaining driving dynamics. A wide variety of Mach-E models means its easy to find one to fit your specific needs and budget, and for 2024, theres a new Mach-E rally model designed for aggressive off-road use, as well as a stylish new bronze appearance package.
4. Rivian R1S/R1T
2023 was big year for EV startup Rivian. After a slow ramp-up, production hit its stride last year, and over 47,200 R1S SUVs and R1T pickup trucks found American homes last year. Designed from the ground up for electric power, the R1S and R1T have none of the packaging compromises of trucks that have been adapted from gasoline vehicles; they pack more room and more versatility into a smaller, more maneuverable package than competitors. Buyers also love the Rivians gorgeous interiors, distinctive exterior styling, and go-anywhere versatility. Theyre premium-priced products, with starting MSRPs in the mid-$70,000s, but they offer a lot of value for the money.
3. Chevrolet Bolt
At the end of 2023, production of the Chevrolet Bolt one of the best-selling EVs in the U.S., and certainly the best-value EV in the U.S. ceased, but only after 60,245 units were sold, the best sales year in the vehicles history. Thats testament to the Bolts incredible combination of virtues: an EV-only platform that combined a tight exterior package with a remarkably spacious interior; an EPA-estimated range of up to 259 miles, and a low (sub-$35,000, before generous incentives) starting MSRP that put it within reach of many, many Americans. General Motors has promised that the Bolt will be returning in 2025, built on the companys all-new Ultium EV platform; in the meantime, other Chevy models like the Equinox EV and Blazer EV will have to take up the slack.
2. Tesla Model 3
Tesla continues to be the dominant player in electric vehicles well over half of the new EVs sold in 2023 were Teslas, though their share continues to decrease as more brands enter the market. The Model 3 sedan saw very healthy sales of over 232,700 units, driven by several rounds of price cuts, each of which made it more and more affordable as the year went on. For 2024, the Model 3 is no longer eligible for the full $7,500 federal purchase incentive, but buyers can look forward to a significantly refreshed model with numerous enhancements. In addition to better performance and range, the Model 3 has received its first major exterior update, with more streamlined front end and LED lighting, as well as an upgraded interior with ambient lighting, available seat ventilation, and nicer materials.
1. Tesla Model Y
The best-selling vehicle in the world also happens to be the best-selling electric vehicle in the U.S., and its not hard to see why. It has everything youd want from an EV crossover: lots of space, a manageable exterior size, decent range and great performance. 385,900 Americans agreed, snapping up the Model Y in droves over 2023, fueled by multiple price drops. You can choose from rear- or all-wheel drive Model Ys, and there are long range and performance versions to suit different needs. Plus, unlike the Model 3, the Model Y is built in Texas and still eligible for the $7,500 federal rebate, which can now be applied at the time of purchase. Starting MSRP is under $45,000 which means that with the rebate, the Model Y can actually cost even less than the Model 3.
Tesla Model Y is the first EV to become the worlds bestselling car
For the first time ever, an all-electric vehicle specifically the Tesla Model Y is now the worlds bestselling car. According to analyst data from Jato Dynamics (published by Motor1), the Tesla Model Y has surpassed Toyotas RAV4 and Corolla models to top global sales rankings in the first quarter of 2023. Thats especially impressive given pricing for the 2023 Model Y starts at $47,490, considerably more than the 2023 Corolla ($21,550) and RAV4 ($27,575).
The figures reported by Jato Dynamics reveal that the Tesla Model Y sold 267,200 units globally in Q1, compared to the 256,400 Corolla and 214,700 RAV4 units sold during the same period. Thats approximately a 69 percent year-on-year increase for the Model Y a figure that Teslas meme-lord CEO, Elon Musk, will no doubt approve of. Musk has been confident about the Model Ys success even before it launched, estimating back in 2016 that it would draw demand in the 500k to 1 million unit per year level.
While this is a milestone for Tesla, the Model Ys victory isnt especially surprising. Tesla doesnt provide an exact breakdown of sales, but it reported that over 400,000 Model Y and Model 3 vehicles had been delivered to customers in the first quarter of 2023.Electric vehicle development by competing car manufacturers also remains slow, allowing Tesla to continue to dominate the EV market. And Tesla has frequently slashed the price of most of its lineup over the last few years, including the Model Y, which may have contributed to the increase in sales.
We should note that while a Tesla EV is currently the worlds bestselling vehicle, the company certainly isnt the biggest global automaker overall. Volkswagen, Toyota, General Motors, and Ford all report higher revenue and unit sales by comparison. And according to Car Logos, Tesla doesnt even rank in the top 10 biggest global car manufacturers, sneaking in at 19th place for 2022.
Musk has previously predicted that the Model Y would claim the top spot, telling investors in 2021: We think Model Y will be the best selling car or vehicle of any kind in the world. Probably next year. Im not 100 percent certain next year, but I think its quite likely... more likely than not, that 2022 Model Y is best selling car or truck... in the world.
It didnt achieve that goal, but it did place third in the overall global rankings for 2022, breaking into sixth place on Americas list of the top 10 bestselling cars, despite fierce competition from trucks and full-size SUVs. Last year, it also became the bestselling vehicle in both Europe and California and the fourth bestselling in China after jumping 15 places from the previous year. And thats despite Chinas crackdown on Tesla ownership and various recalls over safety concerns.
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Tesla has dominated the EV market for the last ten years. With an ever-strengthening lineup and a huge head start on the technology, they are is no doubt that they example to follow in this industry. And to prove themselves yet again, the Tesla Model Y has topped the EV sales chart in the USA among the plethora of impressive 2022 electric cars that were on offer.
The crossover SUV was introduced in 2020 and quickly gained a lot of interest due to its size and practicality. With lots to offer and a lot to consider in its rise to the top, this is how the Tesla Model Y topped the competition to become America's best-selling electric vehicle.
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Tesla Model Y Is The Best Seller In The US
With almost 200,000 examples sold between January to September 2022, the Tesla Model Y is by far the best-selling electric vehicle in the United States. With circa 40,000 units more than its baby brother and second-place Tesla Model 3 which was updated recently, the crossover SUV has been an unprecedented success for the American marque.
According to Kelley Blue Book, the Tesla Model Y holds a year-to-date percentage of 33% of electrified light vehicle sales. Meaning one in every 3 electric vehicles sold in the United States was a Model Y. This kind of popularity is unprecedented.
Especially given that the third-placed car, and the only non-Tesla product in the top 3, is the Ford Mustang Mach-E, which achieved a total of 28,089 sales. This Tesla monopoly is backed up by the fact that in 4th place, with 23,000 sales is the Tesla Model S.
How The Tesla Model Y Became So Popular?
The Model Y's launch came at the perfect time. With no crossover/SUV-shaped vehicle in its lineup and an ever-growing market in this segment, Tesla struck exactly when it needed to. Their infrastructure for charging and maintenance was stronger than ever, and customers had already become accustomed to the service and level of product that they were set to expect. And there are many reasons why people are buying the Model Y.
The Tesla Model Y seats five adults comfortably, which is an immediate selling point over the 3. The passenger legroom is fantastic. An elevated driving position gains an excellent view out of the cabin, mimicking the luxury feel of SUVs and 4x4s we've grown accustomed to. It also has a 7-seat option with two extra seats folding up from the trunk.
Due to a full-length panoramic sunroof, it provides a light and airy cabin making it a great tool for road trips and longer journeys. Talking of road trips, depending on the version, the range can be anywhere from 283 to 331 miles. With thanks to a large network of Tesla-specific recharging stations, juicing up is never too much of a hassle. The Tesla Model Y can be charged via a supercharger to 200 miles in as little as 15 minutes, which for the most part eliminates range anxiety
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Tesla Model Y Faces Tough Competition In 2023
2023 is set to be a huge year for electric vehicles, and while it may seem that every year as of late has been the same, it is true. Every brand is trying its luck with an EV, whether it be a sports car, Pickup, or even a mini city car. The ever-tightening regulations on carbon emissions are doing their job in making the big brands shift from internal combustion.
While this may pose a problem for some sportier brands, it's no doubt a huge opportunity for some to try and earn a cut of Tesla's market share. This year we will see some major Model Y rivals hit the road. First and foremost, the most direct and fierce competitor comes from Volvo's all-electric sub-brand, Polestar.
In 2023, we will see the Polestar 3 hit the roads. And we believe that it's an electric car worth waiting for. With a big range, all the comforts of the Model Y, and objectively better looks, it seems like the car hoping to outshine Tesla. As much as we would love to see the slick swede take next year's podium, we highly doubt that anyone can stop Tesla's steam train of momentum.
Cars like the Audi Q8 E-Tron and BMW iX are yet to really take off, and it may just be for one obvious reason. Unlike the rest of the market, Tesla has the infrastructure to fast-charge. They have A LOT of this. And for many, this is the deciding factor. Why take the risk with a better-performing, better-built vehicle when one day, you might fall victim to the dreaded range anxiety? Tesla is on a roll, and it will take something groundbreaking to bring them to a halt.
Sources: Kelley Blue Book, Tesla
