EV Daily | Tesla's Talent Exodus & New Model Launches Amid EV Market Expansion

【Tesla】

Tesla's director of service for North America resigned after nearly nine years, joining a trend of executive departures following mass layoffs. This talent exodus is seen as a significant issue for Tesla, which previously had a strong ability to attract top talent.

Tesla launched a new Model 3 variant with 830 km range, planned currently for China. It also filed for new variants, including a Model YL and Model 3 Plus in China, hinting at potential expansion to global markets.

Tesla's advertising strategy has come under scrutiny for being misleading about its "self-driving" capabilities. Its Full Self-Driving system remains a level 2 driver assistance system, not fully autonomous as advertised.

The average price for a new EV has decreased, with Tesla leading the drop due to incentives and a higher share of affordable models like the Model 3 and Model Y.

Tesla's Dojo supercomputer project was shut down after key team members left. Musk claims the new AI6 chips are sufficient, but doubts remain about the narrative and decision-making.

Tesla's talent exodus continues with several executives leaving, including heads of engineering, design, software, HR, and sales. This trend raises concerns about the automaker's ability to retain talent and maintain its competitive edge.

【Others】

After launching the lower-priced Equinox EV, Chevy quickly became the fastest-growing EV brand in the US. The Equinox EV had its best sales month ever in July, becoming the top-selling electric car outside of Tesla. Chevy is preparing to introduce a Camaro EV, potentially competing with the Mustang Mach-E. It is expected to have a crossover-SUV look, but may also feature a two-door fastback variant.

Ford's new midsize EV pickup claims lower cost of ownership than Tesla's Model Y and more space than Toyota's RAV4, starting at $30,000. The new Ford Universal EV Platform aims to reduce owner costs and optimize efficiency.

Rivian is developing a steer-by-wire system, as revealed in a job listing for a steering engineer. This system offers benefits like customizability and adaptability but hasn’t reached mass adoption.

BMW is offering aggressive incentives on its 2026 model year EVs to capitalize on sales before the Federal tax incentive expires. Loyalty programs offer bonuses on select EVs, with leasing incentives reaching $9,900.

US EV sales surged as prices dipped and incentives increased, with July sales hitting near all-time monthly records. Automakers are racing to clear inventory before federal incentives expire.

Lucid is teasing a "bold new concept of electric exploration," hinting at a new EV model. Lucid Air was the best-selling electric luxury sedan in the US, with production expected to increase.

Zero started delivering its new Zero XE and Zero XB electric motorcycles. Priced under $5,000, they offer a lightweight riding experience with features like adjustable suspension and multiple riding modes.

PG&E, FUSD, and The Mobility House launched an advanced V2G electric school bus fleet, supporting cleaner rides and extra power for the state’s grid. The project uses The Mobility House's ChargePilot platform.

Jeep’s new electric SUV, inspired by the Wrangler, was spotted, resembling a Ford Bronco. It aims to compete with Bronco and promises enhanced off-road capability while being zero emission. The Recon EV is set for sale later this year.