EV Daily | Tesla Protests and Cable Theft Measures; BYD and Hyundai Launch New EVs; Mercedes Expands Charging

【Tesla】

Tesla faces global protests organized at its stores, known as the "Tesla Takeover," mainly targeting CEO Elon Musk. Protesters accuse Musk of using company resources for personal political agendas. Protests lack centralized leadership and are planned for worldwide Tesla stores. While prior incidents involved vandalism, current demonstrations focus on a civil boycott to send a message to Musk. Tesla is tackling the issue of charging cable thefts at its Supercharging stations by testing new preventive measures. This includes wrapping cables and engraving "Property of Tesla" to deter theft and alert recycling companies. The initiative aims to protect service operations and enhance customer experience.

【BYD】

BYD launched 21 vehicles with its "Gods Eye" smart driving system and is rapidly advancing in EV tech and luxury models under its Denza and Yangwang brands. The company is focusing on integrating advanced software, AI, and smart driving features to strengthen its position in the market.

【Others】

Hyundai has launched its flagship IONIQ 9 in South Korea, featuring a spacious interior and extended driving range. The electric SUV offers multiple seating configurations and starts at around $46,000. It boasts up to 330 miles of range and features Hyundai's latest tech. The IONIQ 9 will soon debut in the US, where it will be manufactured. Kia is set to unveil the EV2 and EV4, part of its affordable EV series, and the PV5 electric van. The EV2 is a compact SUV with prices expected to start at $30,000 in Europe. Kia emphasizes its innovative PBV platform for versatile vehicle configurations, and the PV5 is designed to compete in the electric van market. Mercedes-Benz is expanding its High-Power Charging network into Canada, with plans for over 2,500 fast chargers across North America. Set to debut in 2025, the network will offer exclusive benefits for Mercedes-Benz drivers and support all EVs. The initiative aims to improve charging infrastructure and enhance the EV ownership experience. VinFast reported delivering nearly 100,000 EVs in 2024, with 90% sold in Vietnam. The Vietnamese company saw significant sales growth driven by affordable models and plans to expand globally, aiming to double deliveries this year. VinFast offers a range of EVs from budget to premium, alongside electric scooters and bikes. Chevy introduced the Blazer EV.R NASCAR prototype with over 1,300 horsepower. Based on the Blazer EV SS and NASCAR's tri-motor powertrain, it showcases new technologies potentially usable in future production vehicles. The Blazer EV SS will debut at the Daytona 500, highlighting Chevy's performance EVs. Porsche plans to cut 1,900 jobs in Germany by 2029 due to declining EV sales and geopolitical challenges. The company aims to launch new ICE and PHEV models, adjusting its workforce and hiring approach. Porsche's global deliveries decreased, notably in China, prompting a shift in strategy to address market demands.