The Golden State is known for its eco-conscious residents. So it should come as no surprise that the most popular car in California is an EV. Though Californians love electric vehicles, their popularity is increasing across the nation and around the world. Here’s a look at the best-selling car in California — the Tesla Model Y — and EVs’ global rise. 

Sales figures show the Tesla Model Y is the most popular car in California

For a 2022 research study, Edmunds collected data regarding the most popular vehicles by state. The data consists of retail registrations of cars for the year, so registrations from government bodies or rental sales were not included.

Most of the study’s findings aren’t surprising. For example, pickup trucks were the top-selling vehicles in Texas in 2022. The Ford F-Series reigned supreme in the Lone Star State, followed closely by the Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra, and Ram truck.

As predictable as pickup trucks leading the pack in Texas, EVs topped the list in the Golden State. According to Edmunds, the most popular car in California in 2022 was the Tesla Model Y. Coming in a close second was a slightly more affordable EV, the Tesla Model 3. The other three vehicles rounding out the top five in California were all Toyota models: the RAV4, Camry, and Corolla. 

Why is the Model Y such a popular car in California and beyond?

With so many environmentally conscious consumers living in California, it’s no surprise they’d pick a sensible EV like the Tesla Model Y. However, Californians aren’t the only ones who love the Model Y. The Edmunds study also shows that the Model Y ranked ninth nationally and in the top five in four other states: Hawaii, Nevada, New Jersey, and Washington. 

Starting prices for the latest Model Y are $47,490 to $54,490. That’s not cheap, but eligible buyers can get a $7,500 federal tax credit on new vehicles, offsetting the purchase price.

Furthermore, Tesla EVs are famous for their impressive driving range. The base-model 2023 Model Y can go an estimated 279 miles on a full charge. But the Long Range and Performance trims boast 330-mile and 303-mile ranges.

These vehicles are also fast. The base model and Long Range can reach 135 mph, whereas the Performance tops out at 155 mph. And their 0-to-60-mph acceleration times are 5.0 seconds, 4.8 seconds, and 3.5 seconds for the base model, Long Range, and Performance.

In addition, the Tesla Model Y boasts numerous tech features, roomy seating, generous cargo space, and unique falcon-wing doors.

The Tesla Model Y is also the world’s best-selling car so far this year

Following its success in 2022, Tesla Model Y sales don’t show any signs of slowing. Motor1 reports that the Model Y was the world’s best-selling car in the first quarter of 2023.

The data shows that Tesla sold 267,200 Model Y units during Q1 2023. Most deliveries were completed in China and the United States. Model Y sales are up an astounding 68% in the U.S.

Three Toyota models are close on the Model Y’s heels: the Corolla, Hilux, and RAV4. It will be a tight race for the best-selling car at the end of 2023.