EV Daily | Tesla Faces Demand Challenges; BYD Seagull Upgraded; Rivian Tops US Van Sales

【Tesla】

Tesla has claimed that the Cybertruck was the best-selling electric pickup in the US last year without disclosing delivery numbers. Despite a backlog of over 1 million reservations, the truck is demand-constrained, with inventory full and discounts being offered. Production is not an issue, but demand is, as the vehicle now offers less range and costs more than initially expected. A cheaper single-motor version may help with demand. Tesla has installed a production capacity of 250,000 units annually and aims to sell 500,000 units per year.

Tesla is facing several NHTSA investigations into its advanced driver assist systems, including the Full Self-Driving suite, following fatal crashes. The company is also dealing with a lack of subsidies for its electric truck chargers, even as it calls for an end to EV subsidies. Tesla plans to upgrade Model Y production lines at Gigafactory Shanghai, affecting production schedules.

【BYD】

BYD's Seagull EV, the best-selling vehicle in China, is getting an upgrade. The Seagull, starting under $10,000, sold over 56,100 units in November. The upgraded version will feature a new look, camera systems, and parking sensors. The Seagull is expected to maintain aggressive pricing to sustain its market dominance.

【Others】

Kia's access to Tesla's Supercharger network is delayed until spring, though some owners have found workarounds using third-party adapters. Tesla has added several brands to its "coming soon" Supercharger page, including Honda and Acura, which will gain access in spring.

Rivian's electric delivery van was the best-selling electric van in the US last year, topping Ford. Rivian delivered over 51,500 EVs in 2024 despite challenges, including a temporary production pause. The company is expanding its customer base beyond Amazon and has plans for further growth.

TELO Trucks, a young EV startup, has partnered with Aptera to integrate solar panels into its compact pickup, the MT1. The MT1 offers a range of configurations and has garnered over 4,550 pre-orders.

Range Rover is launching a mid-size electric SUV with a new design, expected to challenge the Porsche Macan Electric, using the new EMA platform.

Toyota is dropping the "bZ" naming system for future EVs in favor of familiar names, following struggles with the bZ4X SUV. Toyota plans an Urban Cruiser electric SUV with Suzuki, reflecting a shift in strategy.

Honda confirmed US production of the Acura RSX EV, marking its first bespoke BEV model. The RSX EV will utilize Honda's new platform and ASIMO OS, representing a significant step in Honda's electrification strategy.