Tesla remains the top electric vehicle brand in California, even as new competitors gain ground in the fast-growing zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) space, according to the latest data from California Auto Outlook.
The Model Y held its title as the best-selling vehicle of any kind in the state during the first quarter of 2025, with 23,314 registrations, followed by the Model 3 at 13,992 units. Together, these two vehicles continue to anchor Tesla’s strong presence in the largest EV market in the U.S.
While Tesla’s overall registrations dipped 15.1% year-over-year, the company still captured 43.9% of California’s EV market in Q1—well ahead of any other automaker. The next closest EV competitor, Hyundai, accounted for just 5.4% of the state’s ZEV sales.
Tesla’s performance comes amid an expanding and increasingly competitive electric vehicle market. Legacy brands such as Honda, Chevrolet, and Ford made gains this quarter, as the state pushes toward its 35% ZEV target for 2026 under California’s Advanced Clean Cars II mandate.
Despite more options for consumers, Tesla’s core models remain top choices thanks to their wide availability, strong charging infrastructure, and continued over-the-air updates. The Cybertruck has over 2,200 units registered.
California continues to lead the U.S. in EV adoption, with nearly 29% of all ZEVs sold nationwide registered in the state. And with Tesla still at the forefront, the brand remains a defining force in the transition to electric mobility.
