EVwire brief: Tesla delivered a total of 13,190 vehicles in April, as per figures from the Korea Automobile Importers & Distributors Association (KAIDA). This represents a notable 812% year-over-year increase from April 2025’s 1,447 units.
From that number, the Model Y sold 10,086 units in South Korea in April, marking the first time a single imported model has surpassed the 10,000 monthly sales threshold in the market.
The Model 3 followed with 2,596 units, meaning Tesla’s two core models accounted for the majority of imported vehicle sales during the month.
The company’s strong performance comes on the heels of its March 2026 numbers, which saw sales rise 330% year-over-year to 11,130 units.
Here’s how the numbers look, as illustrated by industry watcher Tsla Chan on X:
Context:
Tesla’s April result reflects a rapid acceleration in 2026 deliveries, rising from 1,966 units in January, 7,868 in February, 11,130 in March, to 13,190 in April. This brings Tesla’s year-to-date sales in South Korea to 34,154 vehicles.
The company led all imported brands in April, ahead of BMW (6,658 units), Mercedes-Benz (4,796 units), BYD (2,023 units), and Volvo (1,105 units).
On a model basis, the Model Y ranked first, followed by the Model 3. The BMW 5 Series (1,887 units) ranked third, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (1,677 units) ranked fourth, and the BYD Dolphin ranked fifth with 800 units sold.
Tesla’s momentum this year has been notable. As of the end of Q1 2026, Tesla sold 20,964 units, BMW sold 19,368 units, and Mercedes-Benz sold 15,862 units.
The Tesla Model Y became the first imported car in South Korea to sell over 10,000 units in a month
“Tesla effect” drives record import sales in South Korea
The so-called “Tesla effect” has pushed South Korea’s broader imported vehicle market to new highs, with April sales reaching 33,993 units, surpassing March’s 33,970 units, which was already a record at the time.
Industry analysts linked the surge to a recovery in EV demand amid higher fuel prices, with more consumers shifting toward electric vehicles.
The “Tesla effect” is particularly noticeable in the imported market, with imported EV sales totaling 18,319 units. That’s an increase of 394% year-over-year. Even excluding Tesla, EV sales rose 126% to 5,129 units, indicating broader demand growth alongside Tesla’s contribution.
An automotive industry official shared his insights about Tesla’s strong performance in April, stating, “Tesla is solidifying its position as the top imported car brand through aggressive pricing strategies and strong brand value.”
You can review our coverage of Tesla’s March 2026 figures in the article below:
Source: The Chosun Daily, BigGo Finance
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