EV Daily | Tesla Extends 0% Loan in China; BYD Expands; XPeng eVTOL Facility; Ford & Chevy Updates

【Tesla】

Tesla extended its 0% loan incentive in China to boost sales and achieve a record quarter. The company aims to deliver over 515,000 vehicles in Q4 2024, needing a strong performance in China. The Shanghai factory, Tesla's most productive, plays a crucial role in global exports. The incentive is seen as easily absorbed by Tesla's financials. Additionally, Tesla is promoting a 48-volt low-voltage electronic architecture, first introduced in the Cybertruck, as a new industry standard. This move aims to reduce the number of connectors and enhance cost efficiency in vehicle production.

【BYD】

BYD, after unveiling its first electric pickup, the Shark PHEV, in Mexico, continues to challenge automakers like Ford and Volkswagen with its affordable models such as the Seagull EV. The company is expanding in Europe, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, launching new models like the Sealion 7 electric SUV at the Paris Motor Show.

【Xpeng】

XPeng's eVTOL division, AeroHT, has started constructing a facility in China to produce 10,000 units annually of its "Land Aircraft Carrier" – an EV/eVTOL combo. After achieving airworthiness certification, the company plans to commence crewed test flights and aims for production and delivery by 2026.

【Others】

1. Ford introduced new EV routing features for F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E, allowing drivers to view Tesla Supercharger locations. Ford's EVs now integrate Google Maps for enhanced trip planning and offer incentives like a free Level 2 home charger. 2. Chevrolet dealers are offering discounts on the 2024 Silverado EV, with some models priced significantly lower than earlier in the year. The Silverado EV 3WT work truck is attracting buyers with its range and features. 3. Navier, a startup, has begun commercial production of its electric hydrofoiling boat, the N30, in the US. The N30 is marketed as the longest-range electric boat, with deliveries set to commence for luxury and individual buyers.