General Motors has proudly declared itself Canada’s best-selling electric vehicle (EV) maker, a remarkable shift in the automotive landscape. For years, Tesla has dominated the Canadian EV sales scene, but now GM has taken the top spot, at least for the fourth quarter of 2024 and the first quarter of 2025.
This change might have slipped past many people, but it surfaced thanks to an Instagram post from GM Canada that caught the attention of industry watchers. The post highlighted GM’s claim, emphasizing that they are currently leading EV sales in the country. A spokesperson from GM clarified that this assertion is based on vehicle registration data from those pivotal quarters, showing a clear trend: GM has sold more electric cars than Tesla during this time frame.
To put it into perspective, GM reported sales of around 15,000 EVs in the last quarter of 2024, with about 6,000 more in the first quarter of this year. In contrast, Tesla doesn’t share its sales figures by country monthly, leading to some speculation about their current standing. However, evidence from Quebec’s vehicle registration records tells a compelling story; Tesla experienced a staggering decline in registrations, plummeting from 5,097 cars registered in late 2024 to just 524 in early 2025—a 90% drop.
What’s driving this dramatic shift? Both GM and Tesla faced a decrease in registration numbers at the start of 2025, primarily due to the Canadian government discontinuing its iZEV rebate for electric vehicles in February. In Quebec specifically, the regional incentive program was also suspended, creating a perfect storm for sales decline.
One can’t overlook GM’s strategic advantage in Canada’s EV market. While Tesla operates under a single brand with only four models, two of which command considerable interest, GM boasts a diverse portfolio with multiple brands offering electric vehicles. This variety gives consumers options, potentially attracting a wider range of buyers than Tesla’s more limited offerings.
Another factor that might be affecting Tesla’s popularity in Canada stems from comments made by CEO Elon Musk, who once controversially stated that “Canada is not a real country.” This sentiment, combined with ongoing tariff disputes between the U.S. and Canada, seems to have soured relations between Tesla and Canadian consumers. Many now view GM, an established American name with deep roots in their communities, as a more trustworthy choice.
For Canadians who once saw Tesla as the future of driving, these recent developments create an important rethink. As GM steps up to claim its rightful place in the EV market, consumers are rewarded with more choices and innovation. Whether it’s the exciting new features or the familiarity of a trusted brand, it’s a promising time for electric vehicle enthusiasts across Canada. With GM’s rise, Canadians now have another trusted option to consider when moving toward a more sustainable future.
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