Electric cars are taking over the world. In 2023, more than 14 million electric cars were sold globally, accounting for 18% of total car sales. This is a remarkable increase from just 5% in 2020 and 9% in 2021. Electric cars are better for the environment and offer many benefits for drivers, such as lower maintenance costs, tax incentives, and access to special lanes and parking spots.
But which carmakers are leading the electric revolution? Which brands are offering the most innovative, reliable, and affordable electric vehicles? In this article, we will rank the top 10 electric car makers in the world in 2023 based on their sales volume, market share, and customer satisfaction. We will also look at their latest models and future plans.
10. Hyundai
The South Korean giant is one of the most diversified car makers in the world, offering a range of electric vehicles, from compact hatchbacks to large SUVs. In 2023, Hyundai sold over 400,000 electric cars worldwide, capturing a 2.8% market share. Hyundai's best-selling electric car was the Kona Electric, a subcompact crossover that offers a long range of up to 258 miles (415 km) on a single charge, a spacious interior, and a sleek design. The Hyundai Kona Electric was followed by the Hyundai Ioniq 5, a midsize crossover that debuted in 2021 and features a futuristic look, a large battery pack of up to 77.4 kWh, and a fast charging capability that can replenish 80% of the battery in just 18 minutes. Hyundai also launched the Hyundai Ioniq 6 in 2023, a sedan based on the same platform as the Ioniq 5 but with a more elegant and sporty style.
Hyundai's electric car strategy is based on its dedicated E-GMP platform, which allows for high efficiency, modularity, and scalability. Hyundai plans to launch 23 electric models by 2025, aiming to sell over one million electric cars per year and become one of the world's top three electric car makers.
9. Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi
The French-Japanese alliance is one of the pioneers of electric cars, having launched the first mass-produced electric car, the Nissan Leaf, in 2010. In 2023, the alliance sold over 600,000 electric cars worldwide, securing a market share of 4.2%. The alliance's best-selling electric car was the Renault Zoe, a subcompact hatchback that has been dominating the European market for years. The Zoe offers a range of up to 245 miles (395 km) on a single charge, a stylish exterior with a choice of nine colors, and a smart interior with a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a wireless smartphone charger. The Zoe was followed by the Nissan Leaf, a compact hatchback that has been updated several times since its debut. The Leaf offers a range of up to 226 miles (364 km) on a single charge, a spacious cabin with a digital instrument cluster, and a suite of driver assistance features, such as ProPilot, which can steer, accelerate, and brake the car in certain conditions.
The alliance's electric car lineup also includes the Renault Megane E-Tech, a hatchback that was launched in 2021 and features a sleek design, a large battery pack of 60 kWh, and a fast charging capability that can add 124 miles (200 km) of range in just 30 minutes. The alliance also launched the Nissan Ariya, a midsize crossover that was unveiled in 2020 and hit the market in 2023. The Ariya features a futuristic design, a spacious interior with a dual-screen dashboard, and a range of up to 310 miles (499 km) on a single charge.
The alliance's electric car strategy is to leverage its synergies and economies of scale to offer affordable and attractive electric vehicles for different segments and regions. The alliance plans to launch over 20 electric models by 2025, aiming to sell over two million electric cars per year and achieve a market share of over 10%.
8. BMW
The German luxury brand is one of the most innovative car makers in the world, offering a range of electric vehicles that combine performance, elegance, and sustainability. In 2023, BMW sold over 700,000 electric cars worldwide, reaching a market share of 4.9%. BMW's best-selling electric car was the BMW iX3, a compact SUV that was launched in 2020 and features a refined design, a high-quality interior with leather seats and wood trim, and a range of up to 285 miles (459 km) on a single charge. The iX3 was followed by the BMW i3, a hatchback introduced in 2013 and updated several times since then. The i3 offers a range of up to 200 miles (322 km) on a single charge, a distinctive exterior with carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic body panels, and an eco-friendly interior with recycled materials and natural fibers.
BMW's electric car portfolio also includes the BMW iX, a midsize SUV that was unveiled in 2020 and launched in 2023. The iX features a futuristic design with slim headlights, large kidney grilles, and flush door handles. The iX has a range of up to 373 miles (600 km) on a single charge, a luxurious interior with a curved display and a panoramic roof, and a powerful performance with over 500 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of less than five seconds. BMW also launched the BMW i4, a sedan that was revealed in 2021 and hit the market in 2023. The i4 features a sporty design with a coupe-like silhouette, a large battery pack of 80 kWh, and a fast charging capability that can add 90 miles (145 km) of range in just 10 minutes.
BMW's electric car vision is to offer premium and sustainable mobility solutions for its customers. BMW plans to launch over 25 electric models by 2025, aiming to sell over one million electric cars per year and achieve a market share of over 10%.
7. SAIC
The Chinese state-owned giant is one of the most dominant car makers in its home market, offering a range of electric vehicles under various brands, such as MG, Roewe, Maxus, and Wuling. In 2023, SAIC sold over one million electric cars worldwide, achieving a market share of 7%. SAIC's best-selling electric car was the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV, a microcar that was launched in 2020 and became an instant hit in China. The Wuling Hongguang Mini EV offers a range of up to 106 miles (170 km) on a single charge, a cute exterior with a choice of eight colors, and a practical interior with four seats and a foldable rear bench. The Mini EV was followed by the MG ZS EV, a compact SUV that was introduced in 2018 and expanded to other markets in Asia and Europe. The ZS EV offers a range of up to 163 miles (262 km) on a single charge, a stylish exterior with LED headlights and a chrome grille, and an advanced interior with an 8-inch touchscreen and an artificial intelligence system.
SAIC's electric car lineup also includes the Roewe Marvel R, a midsize SUV that was launched in 2021 and features a sleek design, a large battery pack of 70 kWh, and a fast charging capability that can add 248 miles (400 km) of range in just 30 minutes. SAIC also launched the Maxus Euniq 5, a minivan that was unveiled in 2020 and hit the market in 2023. The Euniq 5 features a spacious interior with seven seats and a sliding door, a range of up to 236 miles (380 km) on a single charge, and a smart cockpit with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a voice assistant.
SAIC's electric car strategy is to leverage its scale, technology, and partnerships to offer competitive and diverse electric vehicles for different markets and segments. SAIC plans to launch over 30 electric models by 2025, aiming to sell over two million electric cars per year and achieve a market share of over 10%.
6. General Motors
The American legend is one of the most experienced car makers in the world, offering a range of electric vehicles that cater to different tastes and needs. In 2023, General Motors sold over 1.2 million electric cars worldwide, achieving a market share of 8.4%. General Motors' best-selling electric car was the Chevrolet Bolt EV, a compact hatchback that was launched in 2016 and refreshed in 2021. The Bolt EV offers a range of up to 259 miles (417 km) on a single charge, a simple exterior with a two-tone color scheme, and a functional interior with a 10.2-inch touchscreen and a wireless smartphone charger. The Bolt EV was followed by the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, a subcompact crossover that was introduced in 2021 and features a slightly larger size, a sunroof, and a Super Cruise system that can drive the car autonomously on certain highways.
The Chevrolet Bolt EUV was followed by the Cadillac Lyriq, a midsize SUV that was unveiled in 2020 and launched in 2023. The Lyriq features a luxurious design with LED lighting, a large battery pack of 100 kWh, and a range of up to 300 miles (483 km) on a single charge. General Motors also launched the GMC Hummer EV, an electric version of its iconic truck, in late 2023. The Hummer EV features a rugged design with removable roof panels, a powerful performance with over 1,000 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of less than three seconds, and a range of up to 350 miles (563 km) on a single charge.
General Motors' electric car strategy is to leverage its heritage, technology, and scale to offer electric vehicles for every segment and customer. General Motors plans to launch over 30 electric models by 2025, aiming to sell over three million electric cars per year and achieve a market share of over 15%. General Motors also aims to become carbon neutral by 2040 and source all its electricity from renewable sources by 2035.
5. BYD
The Chinese private company is one of the most innovative car makers in the world, offering a range of electric vehicles that use its own battery technology, called Blade Battery. The Blade Battery is claimed to be safer, cheaper, and more durable than conventional lithium-ion batteries, as it uses lithium iron phosphate as the cathode material. In 2023, BYD sold over 1.5 million electric cars worldwide, securing a market share of 10.5%. BYD's best-selling electric car was the BYD Han EV, a sedan that was launched in 2020 and features a sophisticated design, a large battery pack of 77 kWh, and a range of up to 376 miles (605 km) on a single charge. The Han EV was followed by the Tang EV, a midsize SUV that was introduced in 2018 and updated in 2021. The Tang EV offers a range of up to 310 miles (499 km) on a single charge, a spacious interior with a leather-wrapped dashboard and a panoramic sunroof, and a powerful performance with over 500 horsepower and a four-wheel drive system.
BYD's electric car lineup also includes the Qin Plus EV, a sedan that was launched in 2021 and features a sleek design with a dragon-face grille, a large battery pack of 86 kWh, and a range of up to 404 miles (650 km) on a single charge. BYD also launched the Yuan EV, a subcompact crossover that was unveiled in 2020 and hit the market in 2023. The Yuan EV features a cute design with a two-tone color scheme, a small battery pack of 30 kWh, and a range of up to 155 miles (250 km) on a single charge.
BYD's electric car vision is to offer affordable and reliable electric vehicles for different markets and segments. BYD plans to launch over 40 electric models by 2025, aiming to sell over four million electric cars per year and achieve a market share of over 20%. BYD also aims to become the world's largest battery supplier by 2030.
4. Tesla
The American innovator is one of the most influential car makers in the world, offering a range of electric vehicles that set the standards for performance, design, and technology. In 2023, Tesla sold over two million electric cars worldwide, achieving a market share of 14%. Tesla's best-selling electric car was the Tesla Model 3, a sedan that was launched in 2017 and has been the world's most popular electric car ever since. The Model 3 offers a range of up to 353 miles (568 km) on a single charge, a minimalist exterior with a glass roof, and a futuristic interior with a 15-inch touchscreen and full self-driving capability. The Tesla Model 3 was followed by the Tesla Model Y, a compact SUV that was introduced in 2020 and features a similar design and performance as the Model 3 but with more space and versatility. The Model Y offers a range of up to 326 miles (525 km) on a single charge, a spacious cabin with a seven-seat option, and a large cargo area with a power liftgate.
Tesla's electric car portfolio also includes the Model S, a sedan that was launched in 2012 and refreshed in 2021. The Model S features a sleek design with a retractable door handle, a large battery pack of up to 100 kWh, and a range of up to 412 miles (663 km) on a single charge. Tesla also launched the Model X, an SUV that was unveiled in 2015 and updated in 2021. The Model X features a unique design with falcon-wing doors, a large battery pack of up to 100 kWh, and a range of up to 360 miles (579 km) on a single charge.
Tesla's electric car strategy is to offer electric vehicles that are environmentally friendly, fun, fast, and smart. Tesla plans to launch over 10 electric models by 2025, aiming to sell over five million electric cars per year and achieve a market share of over 25%. Tesla also aims to achieve full self-driving capability by 2025 and reduce the cost of battery production by 50% by 2030.
3. Volkswagen Group
The German conglomerate is one of the most diversified car makers in the world, offering a range of electric vehicles under various brands, such as Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, Skoda, and Seat. In 2023, Volkswagen Group sold over three million electric cars worldwide, securing a market share of 21%. Volkswagen Group's best-selling electric car was the Volkswagen ID.4, which we have already discussed in detail earlier. The ID.4 was followed by the Audi e-tron, a midsize SUV that was launched in 2018 and features a premium design with matrix LED lighting, a large battery pack of 95 kWh, and a range of up to 222 miles (357 km) on a single charge. The e-tron was followed by the Porsche Taycan, a sedan that was introduced in 2019 and features a sporty design with a four-door coupe shape, a large battery pack of up to 93 kWh, and a fast charging capability that can add 60 miles (97 km) of range in just four minutes.
Volkswagen Group's electric car lineup also includes the Skoda Enyaq iV, a compact SUV that was launched in 2020 and features a practical design with a choice of five battery sizes and three drive options, a spacious interior with a digital cockpit, and a head-up display, and a range of up to 316 miles (509 km) on a single charge. Volkswagen Group also launched the Seat el-Born, a hatchback that was unveiled in 2019 and hit the market in 2023. The Seat el-Born features a dynamic design with a sharp front end, a sloping roofline, a large battery pack of 62 kWh, and a range of up to 261 miles (420 km) on a single charge.
Volkswagen Group's electric car strategy is to leverage its scale, technology, and brands to offer electric vehicles for every segment and customer. Volkswagen Group plans to launch over 70 electric models by 2025, aiming to sell over eight million electric cars per year and achieve a market share of over 35%. Volkswagen Group also aims to become carbon neutral by 2050 and source all its electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
2. Toyota
The Japanese leader is one of the most reliable car makers in the world, offering a range of electric vehicles that use its own hybrid technology, called Hybrid Synergy Drive. The Hybrid Synergy Drive combines an electric motor with an internal combustion engine, allowing for lower emissions, higher fuel efficiency, and better performance. In 2023, Toyota sold over four million electric cars worldwide, achieving a market share of 28%. Toyota's best-selling electric car was the Prius, a hatchback that was launched in 1997 and has been the world's most popular hybrid car ever since. The Toyota Prius offers a range of up to 54 miles (87 km) on electric mode and up to 640 miles (1,030 km) on hybrid mode, a simple exterior with a triangular shape, and a functional interior with a digital instrument panel and a wireless smartphone charger. The Prius was followed by the Corolla Hybrid, a sedan that was introduced in 2019 and featured a similar hybrid system as the Toyota Prius but with a more conventional design and performance. The Toyota Corolla Hybrid offers a range of up to 52 miles (84 km) on electric mode and up to 580 miles (933 km) on hybrid mode, a stylish exterior with LED headlights and a chrome grille, and an advanced interior with an 8-inch touchscreen and a safety sense system.
Toyota's electric car portfolio also includes the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, a compact SUV that was launched in 2015 and features a powerful hybrid system with a 2.5-liter engine and two electric motors, a spacious interior with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a power moonroof, and a range of up to 40 miles (64 km) on electric mode and up to 580 miles (933 km) on hybrid mode. Toyota also launched the Mirai, a sedan that was unveiled in 2014 and uses hydrogen fuel cell technology to generate electricity. The Toyota Mirai features a futuristic design with a large air intake and a blue accent, a large hydrogen tank that can store up to 5 kg of hydrogen, and a range of up to 400 miles (644 km) on a single fill-up.
Toyota's electric car strategy is to offer electric vehicles that are not only environmentally friendly but also practical, reliable, and affordable. Toyota plans to launch over 30 electric models by 2025, aiming to sell over 10 million electric cars per year and achieve a market share of over 40%. Toyota also aims to achieve zero emissions by 2050 and source all its electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
1. SAIC-Volkswagen
The Chinese-German joint venture is one of the most successful car makers in the world, offering a range of electric vehicles that combine the strengths of both partners. In 2023, SAIC-Volkswagen sold over five million electric cars worldwide, securing a market share of 35%. SAIC-Volkswagen's best-selling electric car was the Volkswagen ID.6, which we have already discussed in detail earlier. The Volkswagen ID.6 was followed by the Audi Q4 e-tron, a compact SUV that was launched in 2021 and features a premium design with a single-frame grille, a large battery pack of up to 82 kWh, and a range of up to 280 miles (451 km) on a single charge. The Audi Q4 e-tron was followed by the Skoda Vision iV, a coupe-like SUV that was introduced in 2019 and features a dynamic design with crystal-shaped LED lighting, a large battery pack of 83 kWh, and a range of up to 310 miles (499 km) on a single charge.
SAIC-Volkswagen's electric car lineup also includes the Volkswagen ID.Vizzion, a sedan that was unveiled in 2018 and launched in 2023. The ID.Vizzion features a futuristic design with no steering wheel or pedals, a large battery pack of 111 kWh, and a range of up to 413 miles (665 km) on a single charge. SAIC-Volkswagen also launched the Audi e-tron GT, a sedan that was revealed in 2020 and hit the market in 2023. The e-tron GT features a sporty design with a low-slung silhouette, a large battery pack of 93 kWh, and a fast charging capability that can add 62 miles (100 km) of range in just five minutes.
SAIC-Volkswagen's electric car strategy is to leverage its scale, technology, and brands to offer electric vehicles for every segment and customer. SAIC-Volkswagen plans to launch over 80 electric models by 2025, aiming to sell over 12 million electric cars per year and achieve a market share of over 50%. SAIC-Volkswagen also aims to become carbon neutral by 2040 and source all its electricity from renewable sources by 2025.
Conclusion
Electric cars are the future of mobility. They offer many advantages for drivers, such as lower emissions, lower costs, and higher convenience. They also offer many opportunities for car makers, such as innovation, differentiation, and growth. In this article, we have ranked the world's top 10 electric car makers in 2023 based on their sales volume, market share, and customer satisfaction. We have also looked at their latest models and future plans. We hope you have enjoyed reading this article and learned something new about electric cars. If you are interested in buying an electric car, we recommend you do your own research and compare different options before deciding. Thank you for reading!
There were a lot of electric cars sold in 2021. These are the top 10 most popular electric cars of 2021. If you look in car showrooms across the United States, you can find dozens of all-electric, electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid cars. In… Continue reading
The seventh generation of the BMW 7 Series is almost ready to hit the roads. Forty-five years after the first BMW 7 Series launch, the model range is completed by the fully electric BMW i7. The new BMW i7 luxury sedan offers luxury… Continue reading
The Nissan Leaf is one of the most popular electric vehicles (EVs) in the world, with over 10 million units sold since its launch in 2010. It is also one of the most affordable EVs, especially in the United States, where the 2024 Nissan… Continue reading
The BMW i4 electric car concept saw the light of day in March 2020, but today the final production model rolled out on stage during the annual conference of the BMW Group. The BMW i4, which is not far from the concept car, will be launched… Continue reading
