MG 4 Makes Australian Automotive History, Outselling Tesla in October 2024

In a landmark moment for Australia’s electric vehicle (EV) market, the MG 4 has surged past Tesla’s long-dominant Model Y to become the best-selling EV for October 2024. This achievement marks the first time any EV has outsold Tesla in Australia since the US brand began publishing local sales figures over two years ago.

MG 4 Takes the Lead in Australia’s EV Market

The MG 4, a compact electric hatchback, recorded an impressive 1486 deliveries in October, nearly doubling its previous best monthly record of 835 units from November 2023. This surge also more than tripled its monthly average of 419 deliveries from earlier in the year, signaling a significant shift in the preferences of Australian EV buyers.

Tesla, which had maintained a solid lead in Australia’s EV market, saw its popular Model Y fall to second place with 1042 units delivered in October. The Model 3, Tesla’s other major offering, came in third with 422 deliveries—a notable 64.2% decline from the previous year. BYD’s Atto 3 and Seal models followed closely behind with 330 and 313 deliveries, respectively.

Why October 2024 was Different for MG 4

The MG 4’s success in October was aided by strategic price cuts, positioning its base variant as Australia’s most affordable EV at $32,990 drive-away. While this promotion has now ended, the competitive pricing gave the MG 4 a strong edge, drawing in new buyers who may have previously considered Tesla or other higher-priced options.

With this new pricing, the MG 4 has appealed to a growing segment of Australian drivers looking for a cost-effective entry into EV ownership without sacrificing quality or features. Although the discount has ended, MG’s focus on affordability continues to position the MG 4 attractively against both EV and internal combustion engine (ICE) alternatives.

A Broader Shift in the EV Landscape

MG’s record-breaking month reflects a larger trend within the Australian automotive market, as buyers increasingly explore alternative brands in the EV space. Despite Tesla’s seven consecutive months of sales decline, overall EV deliveries were up by 5.9% compared to October 2023, indicating that interest in EVs remains strong even as traditional petrol and diesel vehicles see declining sales.

In fact, the new vehicle market as a whole shrunk by 6.4% in October, with petrol vehicle deliveries dropping 12.3% and diesel down 19.5%. As EVs capture a larger share of Australia’s automotive landscape, brands like MG and BYD are increasingly challenging Tesla’s once-uncontested lead.

Year-to-Date: Where MG 4 Stands

Thanks to October’s stellar performance, the MG 4 now ranks fourth in Australia’s year-to-date EV sales, with 5258 deliveries, just edging out BYD’s Atto 3 by two units. Tesla still holds a comfortable lead with its Model Y (17,739) and Model 3 (14,475) dominating the market, followed by BYD’s Seal in third with 5621 deliveries.

As EVs become more accessible, the competition is likely to intensify, with more brands offering competitive pricing and improved features. The MG 4’s breakthrough month suggests that Australian buyers are not only embracing EVs but also diversifying their choices beyond Tesla.

What’s Next for MG 4?

As the MG 4 continues to attract attention, the big question is whether it can sustain its upward sales trajectory. The EV market is poised for growth, especially with Australia’s increasing focus on emissions standards and sustainable mobility. Although the MG 4’s October price cut has expired, its affordability will likely remain a strong selling point, making it a compelling option for Australian EV buyers.

The MG 4’s October triumph over Tesla marks a pivotal moment, highlighting not just the model’s growing popularity but also a new phase in Australia’s EV market. If this momentum continues, brands like MG could reshape Australia’s EV landscape in the years to come.