Tesla has removed two iconic EVs from the UK after making a startling admission

  • Tesla is removing the Model S and Model X from sale in the UK
  • British consumers are starting to turn their back on the brand
  • Other EV manufacturers are making it difficult for Tesla in Britain

Published on Feb 27, 2025 at 5:30 PM (UTC+4)
by Henry Kelsall

Last updated on Feb 27, 2025 at 5:30 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by Kate Bain

Tesla is set to remove two of its most popular and iconic models – the Model S and Model X – from sale, but only in the United Kingdom.

The American EV manufacturer is set to withdraw the Model S and Model X from the UK market, as the company believes they need a refresh.

The move comes amid fierce competition in the EV segment, with BMW, Kia, Hyundai, and others producing well-rounded models.

However, while they may return in upgraded form, sales might not be as strong when they do come back.

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The Model X and Model S need a refresh

According to British newspaper The Sun, the two EVs have reached the end of their current lifespan in the UK.

However, they will remain on sale in other markets such as America.

Tesla’s vice president of engineering, Lars Moravy, recently spoke on the Ride the Lightning podcast about the situation.

He talked about the upgrades they made a couple of years ago to the Model S and X.

He also acknowledged that they do need ‘extra love’.

“But we’ll give them some love later this year and make sure they receive some of the stuff we’ve been putting in the Model 3 and Model Y,” he said.

Once upgraded, the two models are highly likely to return, but the company might struggle to sell them.

Tesla sales have dropped in the UK

Sales of Teslas seem to have dropped off in the UK, as consumers have seemingly turned their back on the once dominant manufacturer.

Another report from The Sun also revealed that the number of Teslas being sold second-hand has risen by 128 percent in the UK.

Only MG has a bigger share of the used market.

Tesla is also finding the Cybertruck a hard sell in the UK, where it has not even been legalized.

To be fair to them, they can’t sell it if it isn’t legal.

The fact that the new KGM Musso EV pickup is set to be available and road-legal in the UK makes the Cybertruck an even harder sell.

Formerly known as SsangYong, the Musso is a much cleaner and less divisive-looking truck than the Tesla.

It should hit the UK later in 2025.

But that will only add to the difficulties Tesla is facing in one of its most important markets.

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Henry is a content writer with nearly ten years experience, having written for various publications since 2017. Qualifying with a Sports Journalism degree from Staffordshire University, Henry loves all things automotive but has a particular soft spot for classic Japanese cars and anything Lancia. He also has a curious passion for steam locomotives.