Tesla's UK sales drop 60% year-on-year in July

LONDON: Tesla's new car sales in Britain dropped nearly 60% to 987 units in July from a year earlier, figures from industry body Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) showed on Tuesday.

Data last week showed registrations of new Tesla cars in several key European markets fell in July, despite a revamp to its signature Model Y, as the EV maker struggles with a backlash against CEO Elon Musk's political views, regulatory challenges and rising competition.

Overall, new car registrations in Britain fell about 5% year-on-year in July to 140,154 units, the SMMT said, with growth in battery electric vehicle sales moderating to 9.1% in the month.

Battery electric vehicles are now projected to account for 23.8% of new registrations in 2025, slightly up from SMMT's previous forecast of 23.5%.

"July's dip shows yet again the new car market's sensitivity to external factors, and the pressing need for consumer certainty," SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said in a statement.

The new electric car grant offers a helpful financial boost to encourage people to buy BEVs. However, it's still unclear which models will be eligible, so some buyers are waiting, the SMMT said.

"Confirming which models qualify for the new EV grant, alongside compelling manufacturer discounts on a huge choice of exciting new vehicles, should send a strong signal to buyers that now is the time to switch," Hawes said.