EV Daily | Tesla Layoffs at Gigafactory Texas Amid Sales Decline; Volvo Debuts XC70 PHEV in China

Generated by AI AgentAinvest Market Brief
Monday, Sep 1, 2025 8:00 am ET1min read
Aime RobotAime Summary

- Tesla terminates Texas Gigafactory contract, laying off 82 non-union MPW workers amid declining sales and planned Q4 2025 production slowdown.

- Contract cancellations and contractor layoffs reflect strategic shift to avoid oversupply, with further workforce reductions expected before 2026.

- Meanwhile, Volvo launches 125-mile-range XC70 PHEV in China, Komatsu unveils electric mini excavator, and Stellantis suspends costly Level 3 ADAS program due to consumer skepticism.

【Tesla】

has terminated a contract at Gigafactory Texas, leading to the layoff of 82 workers from MPW Industrial Services Inc. The layoffs are linked to the abrupt end of a major contract with Tesla, affecting various positions like technicians, team leads, and managers. These workers are not union-represented, and there are no bumping rights.

Tesla's sales have been declining, even as they are expected to have a strong Q3 in the US due to the end of a tax credit. Further layoffs are anticipated, starting with contractors, as Tesla may slow down production to avoid oversupply in Q4 2025 and early 2026.

【Others】

Golf carts and Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEVs) are increasingly used in US suburbs as alternatives for short trips, with features like seat belts, lights, and speed limiters. While popular for their practicality and low cost, complaints arise about their presence on streets, citing safety concerns. Major manufacturers are responding to demand with new models.

Volvo has debuted the 2026 XC70 plug-in hybrid, initially available in China. Built on Volvo's Scalable Modular Architecture, it offers 400 and a 125-mile electric range. The XC70 aims to bridge the gap to fully electric cars and features advanced aero efficiency and tech-focused interiors. No US availability has been announced yet.

Komatsu introduces the PC20E-6 electric mini excavator with a 23.2 kWh battery, suitable for a full day of work. Based on data from diesel excavators, it meets the needs for less than 3.5 hours of active use per day. Features include onboard and external charging options, and it includes a comprehensive E-Support maintenance program.

is reportedly shelving its STLA AutoDrive Level 3 ADAS program due to high costs and low consumer trust in self-driving technology, as per AAA poll showing 87% of Americans are hesitant about autonomous vehicles. Despite backing off, Stellantis claims the technology is available and ready for deployment.

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