New Delhi: Chinese automaker BYD has overtaken Elon Musks Tesla in electric vehicle sales in Europe for the first time. According to a report BYD sold more electric cars in Europe than Tesla. In April BYD sold 7231 battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) in Europe while Tesla sold 7165 cars. The demand for electric cars is increasing in Europe. However Chinese companies have strengthened their foothold in this market. The demand for Tesla has declined due to the aging models and CEO Elon Musks political ideology. The registration of electric cars in Europe increased by 28% in April. Chinese car brands have made a significant contribution to this. The European Union (EU) has imposed taxes on Chinese electric cars. Despite this the registration of Chinese cars has increased by 59%. Meanwhile the registration of car manufacturers from Europe Japan South Korea and the United States has increased by 26%. Last year was not good for Tesla. For the first time the companys annual deliveries saw a decline. Experts believe that this decline will continue this year as well. In the first quarter Teslas sales fell by 13%. However Musk stated that Tesla has managed to increase sales again. Demand is strong in areas other than Europe. He also mentioned that protests against Tesla in the U.S. and Europe have occurred due to his political views which has led to a drop in sales. China is advancing in several sectors through a planned strategy heavy investment and technological innovation. Its success in the electric vehicle market is part of this broader mission. Under this China wants to become a major power globally. China had recognized electric vehicles as a strategic industry a long time ago. It made heavy investments in this sector. The government focused on subsidies support in research and development and the development of charging infrastructure. Until now Tesla had been the largest electric vehicle company in Europe. With BYD surpassing it Tesla will now face tough competition. This shows how rapidly Chinese companies are advancing in the electric vehicle market. Companies like BYD are establishing their presence not only in China but also in large markets like Europe. Why does this development matter for India? Both BYD and Tesla sell electric vehicles. Following BYDs success in Europe competition between these two companies will increase. This presents an opportunity for Indian automobile companies to strengthen their hold in the electric vehicle market as well. They will need to learn from Chinese companies and produce better technology and affordable cars. The Indian government is also promoting electric vehicles. This competition will help create better policies for electric vehicles in India. India needs to prepare for this competition by promoting the electric vehicle industry focusing on technological development and strengthening its manufacturing base.