Japan saw a surge in electric vehicle imports this year, with Tesla’s Model Y—manufactured in China—leading as the top-selling foreign car in the first half of 2026. The compact SUV’s dominance reflects growing consumer demand for affordable, high-tech electric vehicles in the Japanese market. Analysts attribute the rise to Tesla’s competitive pricing and expanding global production capacity. The shift highlights how foreign automakers are reshaping Japan’s traditionally domestic-focused car industry.
The Model Y, built in China, was Japan's most imported car in the first half of 2026.
