EV Daily | Tesla Launches Model Y in China Amid European Challenges; VW ID.4 Tops Europe Sales

【Tesla】

Tesla has launched the new Model Y in China, featuring an updated design and new features that align with the refreshed Model 3. Despite rumors of high demand with hundreds of thousands of orders, Tesla's configurator updates have raised doubts about these claims. Deliveries in 2025 are down compared to the previous year, with Tesla needing to deliver over 50,000 vehicles next month to match last year’s numbers. Tesla has also applied for a ride-hailing service in California, using human drivers, and partnered with Steak ‘n Shake to deploy Superchargers at over 100 locations. Tesla is facing a dip in registrations in Europe, with the Volkswagen ID.4 surpassing it as the best-selling EV in January. The Model 3 and Model Y's declining performance indicates Tesla's waning popularity in Europe. Meanwhile, Tesla plans to refresh the Model S and Model X later this year.

【BYD】

BYD is progressing towards launching its first all-solid-state battery-powered EV by 2027, and mass production is anticipated around 2030. Additionally, Chinese brands like BYD are gaining traction in Europe, with a 3.7% market share in January, up from 2.4% the previous year.

【Others】

Volkswagen's ID.4 has become the best-selling EV in Europe, dethroning Tesla’s Model Y. The ID.4's success is attributed to its competitive pricing and improved features. Rivian lowered the lease prices for the R1S to $599 per month, matching the R1T despite the R1S costing $6,000 more, with a new offer for trading in gas-powered cars. Polestar secures $450 million in funding to drive growth, aiming for profitability with three EVs on the market and a fourth on the way. The NIU MM 500 electric microcar, targeting urban commuters, is still in the prototype stage with an €8,000 price target and hopes to expand its market reach.