Electric Vehicle

Tesla has released cryptic teaser videos on X, hinting at a potential new vehicle unveiling on October 7th. The teasers, featuring a spinning component and distinctive headlights, have fueled speculation about a next-generation Roadster or a long-anticipated mass-market model. Analysts believe a competitively priced vehicle is crucial for Tesla’s growth amidst increasing competition and evolving consumer preferences, especially in key markets like Europe and China, where domestic EV manufacturers are gaining ground. The unveiling’s success will be vital for Tesla’s future market position.

Faraday Future (FFAI) completed its FX Super One event in Seattle, attracting tech professionals from Boeing, Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta. This event is part of a U.S. tour, following similar events in other major cities with plans to expand to Texas and other states. FFAI will also host a Middle East launch in the UAE on October 28, targeting initial deliveries in Q4 2025. U.S. pre-production work, including crash testing, is ongoing. The company aims for the FX Super One to become a flagship product.

Xiaomi plans to launch its EV business in Europe by 2027, including opening showrooms. Xiaomi will assess the future viability of manufacturing locally but will likely modify an existing model rather than developing a new one specifically for Europe. This move positions Xiaomi alongside other Chinese EV manufacturers competing for market share in Europe amid increasing tariffs on Chinese-made EVs. The company aims to be a top-five global player within 15-20 years, making a local factory a potential necessity.

BYD reported record first-half 2025 revenue of ¥371.3 billion, surpassing Tesla for the first time. The company emphasized strengthening industry collaboration through proactive coordination, optimizing payment terms, and fostering a mutually beneficial ecosystem for stakeholders. BYD highlighted its already low DPO and further reductions compared to 2024, prioritizing prompt supplier payments. This follows a commitment by BYD and other Chinese automakers to limit payment terms to 60 days, addressing concerns about supply chain pressures and promoting sustainable industry growth.

A recent survey indicates Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system may be deterring more U.S. buyers than attracting them, with nearly half believing FSD should be illegal. This comes as Tesla faces slowing sales, increased competition, and reputational damage from Musk’s actions. European sales are also down. While Musk sees FSD as a key advantage, Tesla lags in robotaxi development. Consumers desire clearer regulations and manufacturer accountability for automated vehicles. Tesla faces increasing concerns about safety and brand reputation, especially after recent legal setbacks.

Li Auto CEO Li Xiang, in an interview with Luo Yonghao, addressed online negativity, particularly the “coffin car” smear campaign against the MEGA model. Luo expressed surprise at the intensity of the attacks. Li Xiang alleged a rival company orchestrated these campaigns dating back to the i8 model, aiming to damage Li Auto’s image. He stated that the appropriate response is to improve product and strategy to eliminate vulnerabilities, and acknowledges that the pressure from the controversy nearly caused a complete redesign of the MEGA car.

Li Auto CEO Li Xiang discussed his personal life on “Li Yonghao’s Crossroads,” revealing insights into his marriage and financial management. He admitted his dependence on his wife and that she manages all family finances. Li also addressed his perceived “low EQ” and admitted to conducting a thorough pre-marital “due diligence” on his wife. Despite this unconventional approach, they maintain a stable relationship and have five children. They were recently spotted at a soccer match where Li’s wife garnered attention.

Entrepreneur Luo Yonghao rebranded his Weibo account to “Luo Yonghao’s Crossroads” ahead of his podcast launch featuring Li Xiang, CEO of Li Auto. The premiere episode showcases a lengthy conversation about Li’s entrepreneurial journey. The recording session revealed their contrasting personalities, with Li Xiang doing push-ups and Luo Yonghao stretching to stay engaged during the seven-hour podcast.

TikTok responded to complaints from Li Auto regarding negative online content targeting the EV maker and its customers. TikTok’s Douyin Blackboard announced it removed misleading and abusive content related to “Li Auto owners” and accounts exploiting the controversy, citing violations of community guidelines. This followed Li Auto CEO Li Xiang’s allegations of a coordinated smear campaign by a rival company, a recurring issue during new car launches, orchestrated by online influence agencies.

Xiaomi’s CEO, Lei Jun, initiated a poll about renaming the Xiaomi YU7 standard edition car. Initial results show a preference for keeping the “standard edition” title over adopting “Pro” or “Max.” Those favoring the current name believe the car’s quality speaks for itself. Those wanting a change hope it will improve market perception, as the YU7 boasts impressive specs despite its name. The poll addresses concerns that consumers underestimate the standard edition’s capabilities.