Electric vehicle prices are rising due to tariffs and tech advancements. Rare earth metal supply from China poses a risk. Automakers avoid blaming tariffs to avoid White House criticism. Tesla's future is at stake.
Tesla hints at budget-friendly EVs, possibly a stripped-down Model Y, amidst production line constraints & financial challenges. Aims for sub-$30,000 price, critical for regaining market share.
Tesla faces Cybertruck demand issues, offering discounts up to $10,000. Older models and Musk's focus on AI over auto manufacturing contribute to the problem. Quality concerns impact traditional car buyers.
GM is ramping up EV battery production in the US, aiming for $100/kWh, potentially undercutting Tesla. Ultium Cells plants are expanding, utilizing prismatic cells for cost and weight reduction in models like the Equinox EV.
As a result, the EV could have a maximum real-world driving range “close to 300 miles” on a full charge, according to Lars Moravy, Tesla’s vice president of vehicle engineering.
Waymo, the widely accepted leader in current autonomous technology, has expanded slowly in part due to its need for high-fidelity maps and intense beta testing in each new city where it operates.
Even with all-wheel drive and sticky tires, though, this is still a pretty scary EV conversion, although if you take it to a drag strip with a grippier surface, it should catapult itself off the line and easily beat a Model S Plaid.
