EV Daily | Tesla Eyes India Amid Lower Tariffs; BYD, XPeng, and Lucid Announce Key Upgrades

【Tesla】

Tesla is once again exploring entry into the Indian auto market, facing hindrances like high import duties. The Indian government previously proposed building a factory locally, which Tesla resisted, preferring to first test market demand with imported vehicles. Recent developments show Tesla engaging with real estate group DLF for a potential showroom in New Delhi, indicating a renewed push into India. A new program limits import tariffs to 15% for a specified volume, contingent on a significant investment in local manufacturing, potentially leading Tesla to reconsider its strategy. Additionally, Tesla is offering perks such as three months of free Supercharging as it opens up its vast Supercharger network, challenging Electrify America's status as the largest public network.

【BYD】

BYD's Dolphin EV, a best-seller in China and overseas, is getting an upgrade. The upcoming model sports modified ends and a new "BYD" badge, retaining the Blade LFP battery with new motor options. It will include new ADAS features and various trims, offering ranges up to 520 km (323 miles). Despite China's dominance in the global battery market, overcapacity and price wars are emerging concerns, with BYD planning to cut costs with next-gen Blade batteries. Together with CATL, BYD holds a significant share in the global EV battery market, with ambitions to further reduce prices.

【Xpeng】

XPeng Motors plans upgrades to the G6 and G9 SUVs, moving from LiDAR sensors to pure vision cameras, similar to Tesla. Regulatory filings in China suggest these changes, although official confirmations await. XPeng is one of the few embracing this technology, termed "Eagle Eye," which might also be implemented in the revamped G6 and G9 models, aligning with XPeng's strategic focus on enhancing its ADAS capabilities.

【Others】

Northvolt's bankruptcy and the delay of European battery factories highlight Europe's struggle in domestic battery manufacturing, with China ready to fill the gap. Meanwhile, Genesis is enhancing its portfolio with the high-performance GV60 Magma, due in 2025, featuring design tweaks and performance upgrades. Lectric offers holiday deals on its e-bikes, continuing Black Friday discounts. In electric rail, Intramotev's TugVolt battery-electric railcar debuts in Michigan, showcasing technology that reduces emissions in mining operations. Lucid Motors reveals its Gravity SUV, boasting a 450-mile range, emphasizing design, efficiency, and performance. Stellantis partners with CATL for a lithium iron phosphate battery plant in Spain, aiming for carbon-neutral production to boost EV affordability.