EV Daily | Tesla's Robotaxi Launch Faces Hurdles While BYD Tests Solid-State Battery Breakthrough
Market BriefSaturday, Jun 21, 2025 8:01 am ET
2min read【Tesla】
Tesla's Robotaxi service in Austin will launch with a "safety monitor" in the front seat, revealing significant limitations. It aims to improve optics amid Waymo's leadership in self-driving technology. Unlike Tesla's unsupervised self-driving program, this geo-fenced ride-hailing service involves teleoperation support, indicating Tesla's struggle with scalability and competition. Despite claims of "no driver," testing showed employees in test vehicles. Invitations have been sent to influencers for the launch event. Operational hours are limited, and safety rules apply. Tesla's FSD requires more focus to catch up with competitors like Waymo.
Waymo tested vehicles for 6 months with and without safety drivers before its commercial service launch. Unlike Tesla, Waymo offers rides without passengers, enhancing appeal. Tesla's Robotaxi project is more of a closed beta test than a finished product launch.
Tesla's production at Gigafactory Texas will pause for the second time in two months. A new Model Y with 6 seats is in development. The Honda Prologue ranks among the top ten most leased vehicles in the US, following Tesla's Model Y and Model 3. GM's Chevy is gaining on Tesla, driven by the affordable Equinox EV.
【BYD】
BYD is testing solid-state EV batteries in the Seal model, potentially reaching a 1,200-mile range. Testing is expected to conclude by 2027, with production ramping up by 2030. The Seal, priced at $25,000 in China, will likely increase in price once equipped with solid-state batteries. BYD's batteries offer nearly double the energy density of current lithium-ion batteries.
BYD's Seal and Atto 3 EVs are displayed in Japan. BYD's expansion in Europe and the UK surpasses Tesla's monthly registrations. Known for low-cost cars, BYD aims to enhance range, charging speed, and reduce costs, competing with major brands on solid-state battery technology expected around 2027-2028.
【Others】
Honda Prologue's lease popularity is driven by affordable rates, though federal subsidies may end soon. The Prologue sells at substantial discounts. Chevy offers competitive incentives for the Equinox EV, one of the most affordable, with a 319-mile range.
Nissan's LEAF batteries are part of Enel's energy storage project in Melilla, ensuring power for over 90,000 people. The project uses "second life" batteries to stabilize the grid during peak hours.
Ford is recalling over 300,000 Mustang Mach-E models due to an electronic latch malfunction. The recall affects models from 2021 to 2025, requiring a software update. Prices for Mach-E will rise due to tariffs affecting Mexican-built cars.
Hyundai's Elexio, similar to the IONIQ 5, will launch in China with advanced features. Built on the E-GMP platform, it offers a 435-mile range and quick charging. Available in FWD and AWD, it starts at $19,500. The Elexio has been verified for charging compatibility in China.
Toyota's bZ3X, launched in China at $15,000, is priced at nearly $50,000 overseas. Despite success in China, high import taxes make it expensive abroad. It offers a range of up to 379 miles with smart driving features. Toyota claims the bZ3X's rear space is class-leading.
Tesla's Robotaxi service in Austin will launch with a "safety monitor" in the front seat, revealing significant limitations. It aims to improve optics amid Waymo's leadership in self-driving technology. Unlike Tesla's unsupervised self-driving program, this geo-fenced ride-hailing service involves teleoperation support, indicating Tesla's struggle with scalability and competition. Despite claims of "no driver," testing showed employees in test vehicles. Invitations have been sent to influencers for the launch event. Operational hours are limited, and safety rules apply. Tesla's FSD requires more focus to catch up with competitors like Waymo.
Waymo tested vehicles for 6 months with and without safety drivers before its commercial service launch. Unlike Tesla, Waymo offers rides without passengers, enhancing appeal. Tesla's Robotaxi project is more of a closed beta test than a finished product launch.
Tesla's production at Gigafactory Texas will pause for the second time in two months. A new Model Y with 6 seats is in development. The Honda Prologue ranks among the top ten most leased vehicles in the US, following Tesla's Model Y and Model 3. GM's Chevy is gaining on Tesla, driven by the affordable Equinox EV.
【BYD】
BYD is testing solid-state EV batteries in the Seal model, potentially reaching a 1,200-mile range. Testing is expected to conclude by 2027, with production ramping up by 2030. The Seal, priced at $25,000 in China, will likely increase in price once equipped with solid-state batteries. BYD's batteries offer nearly double the energy density of current lithium-ion batteries.
BYD's Seal and Atto 3 EVs are displayed in Japan. BYD's expansion in Europe and the UK surpasses Tesla's monthly registrations. Known for low-cost cars, BYD aims to enhance range, charging speed, and reduce costs, competing with major brands on solid-state battery technology expected around 2027-2028.
【Others】
Honda Prologue's lease popularity is driven by affordable rates, though federal subsidies may end soon. The Prologue sells at substantial discounts. Chevy offers competitive incentives for the Equinox EV, one of the most affordable, with a 319-mile range.
Nissan's LEAF batteries are part of Enel's energy storage project in Melilla, ensuring power for over 90,000 people. The project uses "second life" batteries to stabilize the grid during peak hours.
Ford is recalling over 300,000 Mustang Mach-E models due to an electronic latch malfunction. The recall affects models from 2021 to 2025, requiring a software update. Prices for Mach-E will rise due to tariffs affecting Mexican-built cars.
Hyundai's Elexio, similar to the IONIQ 5, will launch in China with advanced features. Built on the E-GMP platform, it offers a 435-mile range and quick charging. Available in FWD and AWD, it starts at $19,500. The Elexio has been verified for charging compatibility in China.
Toyota's bZ3X, launched in China at $15,000, is priced at nearly $50,000 overseas. Despite success in China, high import taxes make it expensive abroad. It offers a range of up to 379 miles with smart driving features. Toyota claims the bZ3X's rear space is class-leading.
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