Tesla’s First Quarter Delivery Data: Actually Not That Bad
While the numbers look underwhelming on a headline basis, they need to be put into context. First, here’s a look at the numbers. The 5.6% annual growth is underwhelming, not least as analysts had 365,646 penciled in for deliveries in the quarter. Yes, it represents growth and underscores that its best-selling vehicle, the Tesla Model Y, suffered in the first half of 2025 as the company transitioned to a new Model Y.
| Tesla Deliveries | Q1 2025 | Q4 2025 | Q1 2026 | Year-over-Year Change | Quarter on Quarter Change |
| Model 3/Y | 323,800 | 406,585 | 341,893 | 5.6% | -15.9% |
| Other Models | 12,881 | 11,642 | 16,130 | 25.2% | 38.6% |
| Total | 336,681 | 418,227 | 358,023 | 6.3% | -14.4% |
Data source: Tesla presentations.
Comparing Tesla Deliveries to its rivals
However, the 15.9% sequential decline is a whole lot better than BYD’s reported 52% decline, VW Group’s reported 38% to 50% decline, and BMW’s estimated 27% decline.
While some EV makers will report growth, it likely comes down to smaller automakers issuing new models.
The leading players in the global EV market remain Tesla (which regained the top spot from BYD in the first quarter) with 358,023 deliveries, followed by BYD with 310,389 EV deliveries in the quarter.
All told, it’s just a tough quarter for EV sales, but the soaring gasoline prices might help that situation out pretty soon.