EV Daily | Tesla Semi Nears Mass Production; Cybertruck Deliveries Expand; BYD Leads Affordable EVs

【Tesla】

Tesla Semi has been in limited production for nearly two years, functioning as a pilot until volume production begins at a new Nevada facility next year. The Tesla Semi fleet, consisting of around 100 trucks, has logged 7.5 million miles, with a single truck covering 250,000 miles. It achieves 95% uptime and 100 km per 100 kWh efficiency, slightly better than predicted. Tesla plans to deliver more trucks this year, with full-scale production to follow. The electric truck can replace diesel Class 8 trucks with its 1,700 km daily range.

Tesla Cybertruck deliveries are beginning in Mexico, with Canada to follow. The Foundation Series is currently being delivered, but Tesla may need to offer non-Foundation Series soon as the market for higher-priced models dwindles. Cybertruck production is increasing in the US.

Kim Kardashian customized her Tesla Cybertruck, painting it gray, a first for the model, which usually has a stainless-steel finish.

Tesla still dominates the US EV market with 48% share but hasn't produced a sub-$30,000 vehicle.

【BYD】

BYD remains a leader in affordable EVs, even with US tariffs. BYD's Seagull EV is priced under $10,000 in China, and its Atto 3 SUV dominates the Philippine market. BYD’s strategic advantage lies in its established supply chain and battery production experience, positioning it well against US automakers. BYD has no immediate plans to sell passenger EVs in the US but may enter in the future, still undercutting US prices. BYD's battery advancements, including the Blade battery, continue to drive cost reductions and efficiency.

【Others】

Lotus unveiled the Theory 1, an EV concept inspired by the Lotus Esprit, featuring lightweight materials and a 986hp powertrain. The Theory 1 promises exceptional driving dynamics with steer-by-wire technology and a central driver's seat. The vehicle uses advanced materials, reducing the number of visible components, and weighs 3,527 lbs.

VinFast launched its VF 3 mini electric SUV in the Philippines, aiming at low-cost EV markets. The VF 3 features a compact design, with a range of 130 miles and fast-charging capability.

GM's joint venture, SAIC-GM-Wuling, is updating the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV, once China's best-selling EV, to revive sales amid competition. The updated model is slightly larger with modern design improvements.

Kia's PV5 electric van, part of its new PBV initiative, was spotted in testing. The PV5, built on Hyundai's e-CCPM platform, targets diverse uses from passenger transport to ride-hailing and will challenge competitors like the Volkswagen ID.Buzz with a lower expected price point.

A coalition led by Smart Freight Centre is piloting heavy-duty EV charging along the I-10 corridor, aiming to facilitate the transition to electric transport among shippers and carriers. The initiative aligns with the National Zero-Emission Freight Corridor Strategy.