In February 2023, Tesla once again saw a surge in wholesale sales of Made-in-China (MIC) Model 3/Model Y electric cars in China. According to the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA), the overall wholesale vehicle shipments (local retail sales and export) amounted to 74,402 units, a 32 percent increase from the same period last year. This result was even higher than the previous months of January (66,051) and December (55,796).
The price reduction was a major factor behind the positive results in the past two months, although it was later adjusted. So far this year, the total volume of MIC cars sold by Tesla has reached 140,453 units, a 21 percent increase from the same period last year. With lockdowns no longer an issue, Tesla is expected to exceed last year’s results in the coming months.
The main question is whether Tesla will be able to exceed 80,000 or even 100,000 units in the second half of the year. Meanwhile, Bloomberg reported two weeks ago that the Giga Shanghai plant will temporarily halt production in the second part of February. Reuters also reported about some upcoming work (retooling) at the site in March to handle the upcoming upgrade of the Model 3 (project Highland).
Retail sales data is not yet available, but local sales in China can be tracked through January (see the chart below). Export sales data is also not yet available.
Tesla’s MIC models – Model 3 and Model Y – have seen impressive growth in China this year. With the factory still cranking out serious volume and no lockdowns to impede progress, Tesla is well-positioned to exceed its previous records in the coming months.
FAQ
Q1: Are electric car batteries recyclable?
A1: Yes, electric car batteries are recyclable.
Q2: Are electric car chargers free?
A2: It depends on the charger and the location. Some electric car chargers are free, while others may require a fee.
Q3: Can electric car batteries be rebuilt?
A3: Yes, electric car batteries can be rebuilt with the right tools and knowledge.
