After more than a year of continuous decline, Tesla has finally posted a positive month in Europe. February 2026 registrations came in at 13,740 vehicles across the EU, UK, and EFTA — a 29.1% increase over February 2025.
The Numbers
The 13-month losing streak that began in early 2025 is over. Combined January and February 2026 data shows 20,941 Tesla registrations, up 16.7% from 17,947 in the same period last year.
| Period | 2025 | 2026 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10,646 | 7,201 | -32.4% |
| February | 10,646 | 13,740 | +29.1% |
| Jan-Feb total | 17,947 | 20,941 | +16.7% |
The broader European EV market grew 15.8% in February, while the overall car market expanded 1.7%. Tesla’s 29.1% gain outpaced the EV market, suggesting some recovery beyond just market tailwinds.
The BYD Shadow
The recovery comes with context. BYD sold 15,438 vehicles in Europe in February, a staggering 185.3% increase year-over-year. The Chinese manufacturer outsold Tesla by nearly 1,700 units — continuing a pattern that established BYD as a formidable competitor in European markets throughout 2025.
BYD’s growth is built on aggressive pricing, expanding dealer networks, and a model range that now spans from the budget Seagull to the premium Han.
What Drove the Recovery
Several factors likely contributed to the February uptick. The refreshed Model Y lineup — including the Standard Long Range RWD introduced in January and the upcoming 7-seater variant — is generating renewed interest. Tesla also launched a EUR 3,000 trade-in bonus in Germany in February, paired with 0% financing, which would have directly stimulated registrations.
The comparison base also matters. February 2025 was weak due to the Model Y transition to the Juniper refresh, meaning some of the year-over-year gain reflects a soft prior period rather than genuine demand recovery.
Looking Ahead
One positive month does not constitute a turnaround. Tesla’s full-year 2025 European registrations fell 28% to roughly 235,000 units, and January 2026 was still down 32% in many markets. The question is whether the refreshed lineup and promotional pricing can sustain February’s momentum through the critical spring selling season.