Electric Vehicles

GM’s projected $1.6B charge on EV investments signals growing EV strategy concerns among legacy automakers, compounded by the sunsetting of federal tax credits under President Trump. Tesla’s market share is declining amidst increased competition, despite leading in sales volume. As traditional automakers pull back, Tesla might benefit, but overall EV demand is expected to shrink. Musk is shifting focus to robotaxis and humanoid robotics. Analysts anticipate slowing revenue growth for Tesla, highlighting the impact of policy changes and market shifts.

Navitas Semiconductor will release its Q3 2025 financial results on November 3rd, 2025, followed by a conference call. Analysts are focused on revenue growth driven by GaNFast IC adoption, gross margin performance, and technological advancements. The company’s expansion into markets like electric vehicles and commentary on the macroeconomic environment will also be key. The earnings release is expected to reveal if Navitas can capitalize on the growing GaN power market and maintain its leading position.

Rivian, known for its R1T truck and R1S SUV, is expanding its lineup with the R2 SUV and R3 hatchback to reach a broader customer base. Targeting a $45,000 starting price for the R2, Rivian aims to compete in the mainstream SUV market. Production begins this year in Illinois, with a new Georgia factory planned for future expansion up to 400,000 units annually. This strategy addresses financial challenges and leverages streamlined design for cost-effectiveness, while the brand’s distinctive design features, such as its headlight style, help it stand out in a competitive market.

Tesla reported 497,099 vehicle deliveries in Q3 2025, a 7% increase YoY, exceeding analysts’ expectations. Production slightly decreased to 447,450 units. Model 3 and Y accounted for most production (435,826). European sales slumped due to competition, offset by increased U.S. demand before a key EV tax credit expired. Ford’s EV sales are significantly lower than Tesla’s. Tesla’s stock rose 40% in Q3, up 14% YTD. Energy storage deployments reached 12.5 GWh, with Elon Musk’s xAI as a major customer.

BYD, the Chinese EV manufacturer, has a contingency plan to address potential disruptions to its Nvidia chip supply, despite no current directive from the Chinese government to cease their use. According to Executive VP Stella Li, BYD’s vertical integration and strong in-house technology offer backup solutions, similar to how they navigated the Covid-19 semiconductor shortage. While Nvidia’s automotive chips are currently unaffected, a potential ban in China could significantly impact the autonomous driving ecosystem, prompting domestic chip development and posing challenges for automakers reliant on Nvidia.

Cars.com reports a surge in EV demand as the federal tax credit deadline of September 30, 2025 approaches. 78% of EV shoppers consider the credit a key factor, with 47% accelerating purchases. Demand for new EVs is up 33% year-over-year, and used EV demand increased by 22%. Cars.com highlights top EV picks like the Hyundai Ioniq 6/5 and Kia EV9. Used EV inventory has jumped 38%, with faster sales and dropping Tesla prices. Automakers are also focusing on more affordable EV models.

Tesla’s shares turned positive for the year after a challenging first quarter, rebounding significantly with an 85% climb from its yearly low. Elon Musk’s $1 billion stock acquisition through his family foundation fueled investor confidence. Factors driving this include a proposed compensation package for Musk and positive attention towards MegaBlocks battery storage systems. Despite this, competition and consumer sentiment relating to Tesla’s CEO’s political involvements remain challenges. Tesla is attempting to shift investor focus to innovative ventures such as robotaxis and humanoid robots.

BYD believes Western automakers lag behind in EV technology despite claims from Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz of their competitive readiness. BYD cites its early entry into the Chinese market, in-house battery production (like its Blade Battery), and China’s robust EV supply chain as key advantages. BYD’s Stella Li emphasizes the company’s continued “room to develop,” indicating confidence in maintaining its technological lead, while Western manufacturers face challenges in adapting to the competitive EV landscape, especially in battery technology and supply chain efficiency.

VinFast will showcase its VF 8 and VF 9 electric SUVs at Electrify Expo Chicago 2025 on September 13-14, highlighting its commitment to the North American market. Attendees can test drive the vehicles and learn about VinFast’s technology, design, and comprehensive warranty (10 years/125,000 miles). This event supports VinFast’s dealer network expansion and brand awareness as it shifts to a dealership-based model and expands in high-growth markets globally. The VF 8 starts at $39,900 and the VF 9 at $62,900, with 0% financing and lease options available.

Xpeng plans to launch its mass-market Mona EV brand overseas next year, starting with Europe, aiming to become a global player with affordable EVs. CEO He Xiaopeng revealed an openness to strategic acquisitions to enhance competitiveness in the consolidating EV sector. The Mona brand debuted in China with a $17,000 coupe and will expand globally. Xpeng, already present in Europe, seeks to increase its global footprint, exceeding its initial expansion targets. While considering European manufacturing, it faces EU tariffs.