EV Daily | BYD Surges in Global EV Sales as Tesla Faces Brand Challenges and Declining Market Presence

【Tesla】

Tesla's plans to build a battery factory and showroom near Adelaide, Australia face local opposition due to dissatisfaction with CEO Elon Musk. The proposed facility aims to repurpose Tesla batteries, potentially for Powerwalls or Powerpacks. It promises economic benefits and jobs but is hindered by protests and environmental concerns. Musk's controversial behavior, including Nazi salutes, is damaging Tesla's reputation, leading to declining sales globally, notably in Australia and Europe. Tesla is also working on mild design updates for Model S and Model X amid falling sales, possibly adding RGB lighting and a front bumper camera. Despite new Model Y availability, Tesla's European sales are down significantly, exacerbated by brand damage related to Musk.

【BYD】

BYD is expanding its control over EV distribution overseas, taking over sales in Australia, following a similar strategy in Germany. This move allows BYD to set its own pricing and expand brand presence. BYD's lineup in Australia includes the Atto 3 SUV, Sealion 6 and 7 SUVs, Seal electric sedan, and Shark pickup. The Sealion 7 ranks among Australia's top-selling EVs, with other models like Atto 3, Seal, and Dolphin also performing well. BYD's sales are surging globally, including surpassing Tesla's EV sales in Europe. With robust strategies, BYD aims to double its European sales and strengthen its global presence.

【Others】

Rivian's upcoming R2 EV model is gaining attention with its advanced design features, such as a multi-link rear suspension and a Maximus Drive Unit. CEO RJ Scaringe has been actively promoting the model's benefits, emphasizing its potential impact on Rivian's sales and future models. Rivian's social media engagement shows excitement for the R2 EV, expected to be a significant milestone for the company. Aikido, a floating offshore wind tech company, is launching a 15-megawatt demonstration project in Norway. The AO60 platform aims to reduce costs and simplify assembly with a modular design. This project promises significant industry experience and supports cost-effective solutions, reinforcing Norway's strong floating offshore wind supply chain. Kia is refreshing its Niro EV with a new design, incorporating elements from larger EV models like the EV9. While the Niro is due for upgrades, rumors suggest it may be phased out with the rollout of the EV3. The updated Niro, with improved range and features, will compete with Kia's newer electric vehicles. The EV3, already successful in Europe and Korea, might debut in North America soon. A recent study quantifies the environmental benefits of EVs, especially in reducing brake dust emissions due to regenerative braking. EVs cut brake dust by 83%, outperforming conventional hybrids and PHEVs. Despite higher tire wear from EVs due to weight, the study highlights the overall emissions reduction potential of electric vehicles, promoting public transport and biking as even better alternatives. Nissan's recovery plan includes an upgraded e-Power hybrid EV system, aiming for more range and lower costs. The new drivetrain is cheaper and more efficient, debuting in the fourth-gen Rogue in 2027. However, the tech will still face a price gap with cheaper gas vehicles. Nissan's strategy involves multiple new models by 2027, but it may struggle against increasingly affordable fully electric cars. CATL's new swappable EV batteries debut in China, with the first vehicles featuring ultra-fast charging capabilities starting at under $24,000. The Oshan 520 model, powered by CATL's Choco-SEB batteries, promises a quick battery swap in 100 seconds, akin to refueling at a gas station. CATL plans extensive battery swap station installations, aiming for widespread adoption of its technology in China.