The Driven

Exact numbers for Tesla Model 3s shipped so far to Australia came to light on Monday, an encouraging indication that the “mass-market” electric sedan is experiencing unprecedented interest in an auto market that has been dubbed a “global laggard” in EV uptake.

According to sources familiar with the matter, a total of 2,414 Tesla Model 3s have arrived in Australia via three cargo ships, starting with the Cap Capricorn in mid-August.

As noted by Giles Parkinson, these numbers are stunning – and particularly so when cast in the light of the entire Australian auto market.

Globally, the Model 3 is driving EV adoption, with latest numbers from electric vehicle database EV-Volumes showing that it is now even giving its internal combustion engine (ICE) competitors – BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz – a run for the money.

In August, figures from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries – which notably has also been documenting a sustained 17 month decline in petrol and diesel sales – showed that of the Model 3’s competitors, Mercedes-Benz entire sales inventory amounted to 2,380 vehicles.

BMW on the other hand sold a total of 1,860 vehicles in August across its range of offerings, while Audi sold a total of 1,365 vehicles.

As we note, that’s across their entire range. Looking at specific models noted in EV-Volumes figures – the BMW 3 and 4 series, Mercedes C-Class and Audi A4 and A5, the Model 3 is, quite literally, charging ahead.

Only 423 Mercedes C-Class vehicles were sold in August, only 255 BMW 3 and 4 series vehicles were sold (the majority of these were 3s), and only 137 Audi A4s and A5s were sold.

In total, that’s 815 vehicles.

To read the full story on RenewEconomy’s electric vehicle dedicated site, The Driven, click here…