Chinese automotive giant BYD has officially surpassed American EV pioneer Tesla to become the world's largest seller of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) for the full year 2025. This landmark achievement, reported in early January 2026, signifies a major shift in the global electric vehicle landscape. According to year-end reports, BYD sold approximately 2.26 million pure electric vehicles in 2025, marking a substantial increase of nearly 28% from 2024. In contrast, Tesla delivered around 1.63 million to 1.64 million BEVs globally in 2025, representing an estimated 8.55% to 9% decline in total deliveries from the previous year. This is the first time Tesla has experienced an annual drop in sales, while BYD's growth has been consistently strong. When considering all 'new energy vehicles' (NEVs), which encompass both BEVs and plug-in hybrids, BYD's total sales reached an impressive 4.6 million units in 2025, further highlighting its comprehensive market lead. BYD's aggressive overseas expansion and competitive pricing, particularly in markets like Europe and Asia, have been key drivers behind its success. The company's focus on in-house component manufacturing and its diverse model lineup have allowed it to offer vehicles at a lower price point compared to many competitors. This development underscores the intensifying competition within the global EV market, with Chinese manufacturers increasingly challenging established players. The shift has significant implications for the automotive industry worldwide, including emerging markets like India, where EV adoption is steadily growing.