Tesla Loses Ground to Chinese EV Makers in South America Amid Price War
Tesla's struggle to gain traction in South America contrasts sharply with Chinese rivals like BYD, Geely, and GWM, which now dominate Peru's burgeoning EV market. Price differentials of up to 60% compared to Tesla models are accelerating the shift.
Peruvian EV sales surged 44% year-over-year to 7,256 units through September, fueled by China's strategic use of the Port of Chancay. The logistics hub allows Chinese manufacturers to bypass Western trade barriers while Tesla remains absent from showrooms in Lima.
The pattern extends beyond Peru. Chinese brands now capture nearly 30% of new passenger car sales across key South American markets, leveraging aggressive dealership expansion and cost advantages that Tesla has yet to counter.