Tesla’s China Sales Surge, Six-Seat Model Y on the Horizon

• Tesla’s China sales surge in August, reaching yearly high
• Plans for six-seat Model Y production in Shanghai emerge
• Competition intensifies as Chinese EV makers expand market share

August Acceleration

Tesla’s electric vehicle sales in China hit a high note in August, marking its best month of the year. The company sold 86,697 EVs, up from 74,117 in July, according to data from the China Passenger Car Association.

This boost follows a global demand slowdown and comes on the heels of increased government rebates for EVs in China.

Supersizing the Model Y

Reuters reports that Tesla plans to start production of a six-seat Model Y at its Shanghai factory by late 2025.

The company has reportedly asked suppliers to prepare for a double-digit increase in shipments, signaling confidence in the Chinese market’s growth potential.

Fierce Competition Ahead

Despite the positive news, Tesla faces stiff competition from domestic players like BYD, which sold 373,083 EVs in August.

Chinese carmaker Xpeng recently launched an EV priced at $22,000, nearly half the cost of Tesla’s Model 3 in China.

However, Tesla’s anticipated approval to sell its Full Self-Driving technology in China later this year could provide another boost to sales.