EV Daily | Tesla Faces Criticism and Delays Amid BYD's Global Expansion and Diverse EV Innovations

【Tesla】

Tesla's original co-founder, Martin Eberhard, criticized Elon Musk for canceling the $25,000 EV, favoring the Cybertruck instead. Despite Eberhard's role in Tesla's early strategy, Musk removed him from the company. Musk's court settlement allowed him to claim co-founder status. Eberhard expressed disappointment over Tesla's design choices and approach to self-driving.

Tesla's next-gen Roadster is delayed again. Despite being announced in 2017, it hasn't reached production. Promised enhancements like the "SpaceX package" with air thrusters remain unfulfilled. Tesla's head of vehicle engineering recently teased the Roadster as the "last best driver’s car."

Tesla plans for a "more affordable" model appear to be a stripped-down Model Y, rather than a new model like the canceled "Model 2." Spy shots show changes to the Model Y to reduce costs. There's no indication of a cheaper Model 3 or new models.

Tesla and Samsung have signed a $16.5 billion deal for next-gen self-driving computer hardware. This follows Tesla's history of chip upgrades. Despite promises of full self-driving since 2016, Tesla's hardware hasn't achieved it. New hardware generations may still not meet these promises.

【BYD】

Chinese automaker BYD is expanding its presence in international markets. Yamuna Shrestha, a Nepali dealer, plans to sell 4,000 BYD vehicles by 2025, highlighting BYD's growing influence. BYD's new Pony EV, smaller than its Seagull model, reflects its strategy to offer compact and affordable EVs.

【Others】

China's Bestune launched the Pony EV for around $4,900, showcasing China's advanced EV capabilities. The affordable EV features a minimalist interior, LED lights, and a 222 km range.

Kia's electric van, the PV5, is spotted in the US, suggesting a future launch despite high tariffs. The PV5, available in European markets, highlights Kia's plans for a global rollout.

California's B2U Storage Solutions is building a battery storage site in Texas using repurposed EV batteries. This project highlights the potential of used EV batteries in grid storage.

Acura has donated 75 ZDX EVs to The Nature Conservancy to support conservation efforts. The ZDX is Acura's first all-electric vehicle, already a best-seller in the US.

Hyundai's new IONIQ 6 offers a range of nearly 350 miles, making it Korea’s longest-range domestic EV. It features aerodynamic improvements, advanced battery tech, and new interior features.

Honda's N-ONE e electric kei car aims for city driving with a flexible interior and 167-mile range. It's Honda's second EV kei car, featuring V2H capabilities for emergencies.

E-bike incentives are spreading across US cities to promote car-free living, with varied programs targeting lower-income residents. Despite challenges, the trend is seen as a cost-effective transportation solution.