EV Daily | Tesla Cybertruck Tops US Pickup Sales; Delays and Price Hikes Impact Global Markets

【Tesla】

A visual artist has rendered an electric van based on the Tesla Semi, suggesting it should have been made years ago. The idea aligns with CEO Elon Musk's 2016 "Tesla Master Plan Part 2," which focused on heavy-duty trucks and high passenger-density urban transport. Although the Tesla Semi faced delays, it is now in volume production. Despite various rumors and Musk's 2021 mention of a solar-powered electric van, no such vehicle has been produced. A highly configurable electric van could have filled a product gap and been successful in multiple markets.

Tesla’s Cybertruck topped Ford's Lightning in US registrations in May, becoming the top-selling electric pickup. It was also the fifth top-selling EV in the US. Hyundai, after analyzing the Cybertruck, is eager to enter the US pickup truck market. Tesla's Cybertruck success is driving up prices of other models like the Model 3 and Model Y. Tesla is performing well in China but faces declining sales in Europe due to increased competition and delays in features like Full Self-Driving (FSD).

EV prices in July were higher compared to previous months, with Tesla’s Model 3 experiencing a significant price increase. Tesla is seeing success in China but is struggling in Europe, with a notable year-over-year decline in deliveries. This is the first time Tesla has seen a two-quarter decline since becoming a major automaker. Increased competition and a stagnant lineup are contributing factors. While the Cybertruck's recent launch was the first new vehicle in years, it is unavailable in Europe, emphasizing Tesla's need for a broader product lineup to sustain growth.

**Li Auto**Li Auto reported 15,500 insurance registrations for Tesla vehicles in China last week, a 23% increase from the previous year.

**Others**Volkswagen is considering accelerating the launch of the electric VW Golf, potentially ahead of the delayed Trinity EV. The Trinity EV’s production has been pushed to 2032 due to slowing EV sales and cost-cutting measures. The electric Golf may debut as early as 2029, benefiting from a partnership with Rivian that involves significant investment and technology upgrades.

Hyundai Motor Company, including Kia, plans to enter the US pickup market, building over 50,000 extended-range EVs per year starting in 2029. Kia’s first pickup, the Tasman, will launch in several regions by 2025. Hyundai also plans to unveil its three-row electric SUV, the IONIQ 9, later this year.

Mazda will launch its first global electric sedan, the EZ-6, this fall. Initially expected for China, the EZ-6 will also target other markets, featuring advanced autonomous driving technologies and a significant driving range. Mazda's US market strategy remains uncertain due to its focus on production in China.

Kindred Motorworks unveiled an electric conversion of the classic Ford Bronco, featuring modern EV upgrades while maintaining its original aesthetic. Pre-orders are now open for this model, which includes dual motors, an 80 kWh battery, and various modern amenities.

South Korea’s Hyundai and Kia, along with other manufacturers like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, are offering free EV inspections following a fire incident involving a Mercedes-Benz EV. This initiative aims to alleviate public concerns about battery safety.

Ambitious young EV automaker ZEEKR unveiled new LFP batteries during its Tech Day event in China, claiming a record-setting charging speed. The new batteries can recharge a 007 EV from 10-80% in 10.5 minutes, pushing the industry closer to traditional gasoline fill-up times.