Tesla Rises in the UK as Tokyo Heats Up the EV Race

Tesla’s sales surge in the UK thanks to the Model Y, but China’s momentum is accelerating,
intensifying competition in the electric vehicle market.

Contents

Tesla
Tokyo

Tesla

Tesla Gains Ground in the UK Amid Intensifying Chinese Competition as EV Market Grows

Tesla’s new car sales in the UK saw a significant year-over-year increase in June,
benefiting from a broader recovery in the electric vehicle (EV) market.
The American company began delivering its updated Model Y last month, which helped stimulate demand.

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT),
new car registrations in June rose by 6.7% year-on-year to around 191,300 units. This growth was primarily driven by battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales,
which jumped 39% to 47,400 units—the best monthly performance since 2019
even though the market still lags behind pre-pandemic levels.

SMMT data shows that Tesla sold 7,719 units in June, a 14% annual increase.
However, figures from the independent group “New Automotive” reported a slightly different number of 7,891 units,
reflecting differences in data collection methodologies.

Despite this June surge, Tesla’s total sales in the UK remain down by 2% year-to-date. Meanwhile,
Chinese automaker BYD continues its substantial rise, with sales nearly quadrupling to 2,498 units.

A surprise performance came from Ford, which, according to New Automotive data,
recorded the fastest growth rate in EV sales in the UK during the first half of 2025.

Tokyo

Tokyo and Washington Race Against Time to Avoid Heavy Tariffs

Intensive negotiations have continued between Japan and the United States regarding
the steep tariffs scheduled to take effect on July 9. Japan’s chief trade negotiator,
Ryusuke Akazawa held two lengthy phone discussions last week with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.

According to the Japanese Cabinet Secretariat, both sides exchanged views in-depth and reaffirmed their positions on the tariff issue,
but have yet to reach an agreement.
The statement noted that coordination will continue in the coming days to prevent the reinstatement of a 24% tariff
on Japanese exports to the U.S., up from the current 10%.

Pressure is mounting after former U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Monday
He had signed 12 warning letters to be sent to various trade partners.
These letters will include details of the new tariffs to be imposed on their exports,
However, the countries involved have not been disclosed.

Japan already faces additional duties—25% on automobiles and spare parts, and 50% on steel and aluminum imports.
These taxes directly impact Japan’s export-driven industries, particularly its vital automotive sector.

Tesla Rises in the UK as Tokyo Heats Up the EV Race

Tesla Rises in the UK as Tokyo Heats Up the EV Race

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