Tesla's Model 3 outsold the 3 Series, C-Class and A4

The Tesla Model 3 outsold the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4 across Europe last month, according to new data from JATO. Twitter, prepare yourself.

Yup, the new Model 3 sold 3,630 units in February, which was apparently more than The German Big Three did. It also topped the pure electric vehicle charts, outselling the Renault Zoe, Nissan Leaf, BMW i3 and Hyundai Kona.

We’re told the sales of the Model 3 came mostly from private registrations rather than fleet. A JATO spokesperson said the “long-lasting impact will depend on how quickly the German premium makers, Volvo and JLR react to the arrival of the Model 3 to Europe and how quickly they can bring in their own mid-size electric cars”.

It's worth noting the Model 3's huge success upon arrival might betray just how pent-up demand has been, as Europe has patiently awaited its arrival from the States, and whether its dominance might waver once those early adopters have their needs sated. We also know that BMW, Mercedes and Audi have a raft of electric cars incoming: BMW will bring in the iX3 and i4 over the next couple of years, Merc’s got its EQ brand up and running, and Audi is already ploughing through its e-tron range.

Elsewhere, somewhat depressingly (and predictably), SUV sales grew in Europe. This segment commanded a 36.9 per cent market share, with Volkswagen’s T-Roc being the best-selling SUV in Europe. The Golf continues to be the best-selling model overall though, with more than 31k sold last month. See? Chris Harris told you.