Tesla expands its stores and service network to seize the top position in Japan's imported car market

Gelonghui, April 3rd — The head of Tesla’s Japan business said on Friday that Tesla plans to expand to at least 60 stores in Japan, aiming to become the country’s largest imported car brand as early as next year. Tesla’s Japan manager, Richi Hashimoto, said that over the past two years, Tesla has increased its number of stores and service centers and invested more in training, all of which have contributed to sales growth in Japan, even though electric vehicle adoption in Japan remains low. Tesla’s expansion in Japan comes at a time when battery-powered car sales have slowed significantly in the United States and other major global markets, increasing the importance of regions where electric vehicle penetration remains low. Speaking at an event to mark the launch of the Model Y L in Japan, Hashimoto said, “Our goal is to become the number one imported car brand, possibly as early as next year,” as he outlined the company’s medium- and long-term goals in Japan. Last year, the American electric vehicle manufacturer sold just over 10,000 vehicles in Japan. On Friday, it began accepting orders for the Model Y L in Japan, a six-seater family car, as the company seeks to expand its appeal beyond early adopters.