Despite ongoing demonstrations and criticism leveled at both the brand and its CEO, Elon Musk, sales of used Teslas are experiencing remarkable growth in the United Kingdom.
Recent data reveals a surge in the second-hand market, with 2,951 pre-owned Tesla models changing hands in March. This figure surpasses February’s previous high of 2,690 units, demonstrating a consistent upward trend.
Compared to last year’s figures, sales have nearly doubled – a significant increase from the 1,510 used Teslas sold during the same period in 2023. This expansion highlights a growing appetite for these electric vehicles among UK drivers, seemingly unaffected by recent controversies.
The momentum began earlier this year, with 2,442 used Teslas already finding new owners since January. A parallel trend is observable within Tesla’s new vehicle sales as well, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). The manufacturer recorded 7,164 new vehicle sales in March, bringing their cumulative total for 2024 to an impressive 12,474 – outpacing competitors such as Porsche, Honda, Fiat, and BYD.
Alastair Campbell of Marketcheck UK described the recent performance as a “record-breaking month” for Tesla. “Tesla’s dominance in the used EV market continues to accelerate,”
he stated. “With nearly 3,000 units sold in March alone, this marks a new record and a clear signal that second-hand demand for premium electric vehicles is still present in the UK.”
Campbell attributed the success to increasing consumer confidence in EV technology and infrastructure. He added: “The current pricing of used Teslas is undoubtedly driving quicker sales.”
He noted the appeal of lower prices, particularly as Tesla models become increasingly mainstream.
“Media coverage surrounding the brand appears to have had no impact on UK demand for used Teslas,” Campbell observed. He predicts further record-breaking sales in April.
This robust market performance occurs against a backdrop of ongoing protests across the UK. Over the weekend, demonstrations took place in Glasgow, Manchester, Nottingham, Leeds, London, Winchester, and Norwich – marking the first protest in the latter city.
The UK chapter of “Tesla Takedown” has partnered with the Campaign for Ukraine and the Ukraine Solidarity Campaign, aiming to pressure Elon Musk through coordinated action. Protests worldwide have been fueled by concerns over Musk’s political associations and his involvement with initiatives like DOGE.
In Seattle, Washington, a particularly striking demonstration involved setting up a “de-badging” station where activists assisted Tesla owners in removing the company’s logo from their vehicles. Images shared online showed individuals utilizing tools to remove the iconic “T” emblem and displayed signs advocating for a boycott of the brand.
One social media post on BlueSky, by Evan Sutton founder of Firekit Campaigns, humorously noted that the de-badged Tesla “now identifies as an Audi.” The UK chapter of Tesla Takedown echoed this sentiment, endorsing the idea.
- March saw 2,951 used Teslas sold – a new record.
- Sales have nearly doubled compared to March 2023 (1,510).
- Tesla’s total sales for 2024 currently exceed 12,474.
