Latest news with #TeslaSupercharger
Miami Herald
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Auto review: Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT sports all-terrain tires, NACS charging
FRANKLIN, Michigan - With its raccoon-like black details, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT is instantly recognizable as a new, 2025 off-road trim for the brand's electric hatchback. It sports a black mask, black wheels, black wheel arches etched with "digital camouflage" graphic, and black mirrors. XRT for Xtra Raccoon Trim. But what many drivers will really appreciate about the latest member of the I5 family is its Tesla-like NACS charging port and all-terrain tires. "WHUMP! WHUMP! WHUMPA! WHUMP WHUMP!" we went across 14 Mile's pothole-pocked dirt road, one of many across Metro Detroit. These dirt roads are bad enough in summer but come spring they are really fraught after a harsh winter, particularly in premium vehicles with low-profile tires like the standard 19-inch-wheel Ioniq 5. Residents along these roads are best served by rugged mules like pickups, Jeeps, Broncos and other off-roaders. For EV fans, the I5 XRT allows them to pair battery and brawn. Just choose the ALL-TERRAIN button on the steering wheel spoke to soften the ride. "WHUMP! WHUMP! WHUMPA! WHUMP!" The high-profile Continental CrossContact ATR tires cushioned the blows as I weaved my way west ... ... toward a Tesla Supercharger station. Tesla, of course, has won the charging wars, defeating the industry-favored standard for bulky, five-prong CCS charging ports with its leaner, two-prong so-called North American Standard (NACS for short) plug. Combined with the Texas automaker's ubiquitous reliable network of fast chargers, it has forced competitors to reluctantly succumb to consumer preference. NACS it is. With customers screaming about fickle third-party DC chargers, EV makers have rushed to buy access to Tesla's reliable network and Hyundai is one of the first automakers to - not just enable access to Superchargers for its clients - but also to equip their cars with NACS ports just like a Tesla. Hyundai NACS has its hiccups, however. I was unable to connect to the 240-volt Tesla charger in my garage (I own a Model 3) because it was a 2018 NACS, which doesn't sync with the Hyundai's 2025 NACS plug. Something about software. Neither could the Hyundai charge on my 240-volt, J1772 Juicebox garage charger that I use to charge non-Tesla EVs with CCS/J1772 ports. If this sounds complicated to folks used to simply stuffing a nozzle into a fuel filler, it is. And it is a reason EVs have proved to be niche vehicles in the U.S. market. Stymied at home, I used I5's native navigation system to locate the nearest Tesla Supercharger in Northville 12 miles away. I'd been before, the last time in June 2024 with a Ford Mustang Mach-E (Ford being the first automaker to gain access to Tesla's network). The Ioniq 5 was much easier to fill. And not just because it has a NACS port that the Tesla cable slipped into as easily as, well, a Tesla. Hyundai also had the good sense to locate its NACS charging port on the rear corner of the vehicle like Tesla (right rear for I5, left rear for Tesla), meaning I simply backed the XRT up to the charger and connected the port. The Mach-E, like most EVs, locates its charging port behind the left front wheel, meaning I had to park the 'Stang against the curb for the cord to reach. Combined with the bulky CCS/NACS adapter required for the Ford, it takes effort. You don't need an adapter to charge the 2025 Hyundai, but you need a Tesla app. Download it. Add the Hyundai to its vehicle list. Then locate the Supercharger where you want to charge. Not all Tesla chargers are available to non-Tesla customers, but the Northville charger was, happily. I plugged in, and my steed slurped electrons. Northville is one of the busiest chargers in Metro Detroit, evidence that Tesla's open-charger policy is catching on. Eight of the nine stalls were occupied on a Tuesday afternoon, with EVs including a Mustang Mach-E and Rivian R1S as well as the usual assortment of Tesla Cybertrucks, Model 3s, Ys and Ss. Hyundai has upped the range on AWD models for 2025 to 290 miles (XRT clocks in at 259 with its all-terrain tires). That's plenty for metro travel, but having the option of more chargers (like more gas stations for an internal combustion-vehicle) makes road trips less stressful. On a recent road trip to two-hours-from-anywhere - Sebring, Florida, for example - the only charging station in town was a Tesla Supercharger. Hyundai, of course, does not have the cachet of the Tesla brand, and two friends recently opted to buy Model 3s as their first EVs. If you're shelling out $50K for a car, brand matters. But for those who want something different, my $56K XRT tester is a shockingly sophisticated (pun intended) EV. It's roomy, utilitarian ... and quick. (For $10K less, its I5 siblings begin at $46K and offer many of the same attributes.) Merging onto I-696 on my way home, I dialed the steering wheel drive button (like a Porsche) to SPORT and buried my right foot. ZOT! Acceleration is, well, bioniq. Car and Driver clocks its 0-60 mph sprint at 4 seconds. Settling into the drive, I told the Ioniq to detour to Popeyes for lunch, and directions quickly appeared on the big, hoodless 24.6-inch jumbotron in front of me. Where Hyundai comes up short is in hands-free driving, where Tesla and General Motors lead the way. Set a destination on a Tesla and it will self-drive there. It's a feature prized by my pals. A Caddy EV, too, will go hands-free on most divided highways. Not Ioniq 5. My XRT's adaptive cruise control system automatically changed lanes (like its EV competitors) when I tugged on the turn stalk - but otherwise required I keep a hand on the wheel. Worse, it nannied me constantly to watch the road even when my eyes had never left it. Sheesh, take a valium. But that camera watching me suggests Hyundai plans over-the-air updates and Ioniq 5 should get more capable with time. High 5. 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Vehicle type: Battery-powered, rear- and all-wheel-drive, five-passenger hatchback Price: $44,075, including $1,495 destination fee ($56,875 XRT as tested) Powerplant: 63 kWh or 84 kWh lithium-ion battery with single or dual-electric-motor drive Power: 225 horsepower, 258 pound-feet of torque (RWD); 325 horsepower, 446 pound-feet of torque (AWD) Transmission: Single-speed automatic Performance: 0-60 mph, 4.5 seconds (Car and Driver, AWD as tested); top speed, 115 mph Weight: 4,707 pounds (XRT as tested) Fuel economy: EPA range: 245-318 miles (259 miles, XRT as tested) Report card Highs: NACS charge port; Michigan-friendly XRT trim Lows: Pricey; hands-free driving, please Overall: 3 stars ____ Copyright (C) 2025, Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Portions copyrighted by the respective providers.
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Services Market to Surge to USD 45 Billion by 2034, Driven by 14.1% CAGR
Electric Vehicle Charging Services Market Report (2025–2034) Luton, Bedfordshire, United Kingdom, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Market Overview The global Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Services Market was valued at approximately USD 12.5 billion in 2024 and is poised for substantial expansion, projected to reach USD 45 billion by 2034. This growth corresponds to a robust CAGR of 14.1% from 2025 to 2034. Key drivers include increasing EV adoption, favorable government policies, and accelerating investment in fast-charging and smart infrastructure technologies. Get a Sample PDF Brochure: Market Segmentation By Charging Infrastructure Type Level 1 Charging: Popular in residential setups; slower but cost-effective. Level 2 Charging: Fastest-growing segment; suitable for residential, commercial, and public use. DC Fast Charging (DCFC): Critical for highway and urban installations; caters to long-range EVs. Wireless Charging: Emerging segment offering contactless convenience but currently limited by cost and infrastructure. By Charging Station Ownership Public Charging Stations: Essential in urban areas; driven by government and private partnerships. Private Charging Stations: Residential users prefer private setups, supported by incentives. Fleet Charging Stations: Growing with commercial fleet electrification and logistics industry uptake. By Business Model Subscription-Based: Preferred for cost predictability. Pay-Per-Use: Ideal for casual and occasional users. Free with Advertisements: Innovative but niche; growing in urban retail hubs. By End User Individual Consumers: Primary driver of market demand. Commercial Entities: Fleet electrification and sustainability initiatives fuel growth. Government Entities: Investing heavily in public infrastructure to meet climate targets. By Technology Plug-in Charging: Market standard; widely used across all charger levels. Wireless Charging: Offers future potential for urban and autonomous vehicle ecosystems. By Distribution Channel Online: Gaining momentum through digital platforms and apps. Offline: Still dominant in commercial and fleet setups for bulk installations. By Connector Type CCS (Combined Charging System): Market leader due to global standardization. CHAdeMO / Type 2: Region-specific adoption; consistent but secondary. Tesla Supercharger: Dominates Tesla EVs; expanding slowly toward universal compatibility. Regional Analysis North America In 2024, North America accounted for approximately 42% of the global EV charging cables market share, making it the dominant regional player. The market's strength in this region is largely driven by favorable regulatory frameworks that promote electric vehicle (EV) adoption, combined with consistent technological advancements and substantial private-public investments. The United States and Canada have introduced extensive federal and state-level incentives that support the installation of EV infrastructure, which in turn propels demand for high-quality and durable charging cables. Furthermore, North America is witnessing a significant expansion of fast-charging networks, particularly along major highways and urban centers. The integration of EV charging stations with smart grid systems and energy storage solutions is also gaining momentum, creating new avenues for innovation in cable design and functionality. Europe Europe captured around 30% of the global market share in 2024 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 13% from 2025 to 2034. The region's market growth is primarily driven by stringent European Union (EU) emission regulations and ambitious urban sustainability initiatives aimed at achieving carbon neutrality. Countries such as Germany, the Netherlands, and Norway are at the forefront, with aggressive electrification targets and strong government support for EV infrastructure. A notable trend in the European market is the deployment of ultra-fast charging stations that require advanced cable technology capable of handling higher power loads. In addition, large-scale public funding and public-private partnerships are enabling the rapid expansion of accessible and standardized charging infrastructure across urban and rural areas, thereby boosting cable demand. Asia-Pacific Asia-Pacific held approximately 25% of the global EV charging cables market share in 2024 and is projected to be the fastest-growing region, with a forecasted CAGR of around 17% from 2025 to 2034. The explosive market growth in this region is primarily fueled by surging EV adoption rates in countries like China, Japan, and South Korea, supported by strong government policies, purchase subsidies, and large-scale investments in EV infrastructure. Urbanization and the need for sustainable transport options are further contributing to the increasing demand for EVs and associated charging equipment, including cables. Key market trends in Asia-Pacific include the domestic manufacturing of charging cables to reduce dependency on imports, as well as the integration of renewable energy sources—such as solar and wind—into EV charging stations. These developments are shaping a highly dynamic and competitive landscape for EV charging cables in the region. Browse full Report - Key Market Players ChargePoint Tesla Supercharger EVgo Blink Charging Electrovolt Ather Energy Tata Power Fortum ABB Shell Recharge Siemens NewMotion Fastned BP Chargemaster Volta Charging Growth Drivers The global EV charging cables market is witnessing significant momentum, primarily fueled by the surge in electric vehicle (EV) sales across both developed and emerging economies. As automakers ramp up production and expand their EV portfolios, the need for reliable, efficient, and fast-charging infrastructure — including cables — is growing exponentially. Another key catalyst is the strong regulatory push by governments worldwide, which are enforcing stringent emission reduction targets and providing policy support such as tax rebates, subsidies, and zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandates. These initiatives are encouraging both consumers and businesses to transition to electric mobility. Moreover, technological advancements are reshaping the landscape, particularly with innovations in fast-charging and wireless charging solutions. These technologies demand high-performance cables capable of handling higher voltages and currents while maintaining safety and durability. Additionally, declining battery costs are making EVs more affordable, leading to broader market penetration. Alongside this, increasing consumer awareness about environmental sustainability and long-term cost savings is accelerating EV adoption, thereby driving demand for associated charging infrastructure, including cables. Challenges Despite strong market potential, several challenges hinder the smooth expansion of the EV charging cable industry. One major issue is the uneven distribution of charging infrastructure, which creates so-called 'charging deserts' — areas, particularly in rural or underdeveloped regions, where charging facilities are scarce or non-existent. This limits consumer confidence in switching to EVs and reduces market reach. Supply chain disruptions are another concern, especially post-pandemic and amid geopolitical tensions that have affected the availability of raw materials, semiconductors, and electronic components necessary for manufacturing chargers and cables. Furthermore, the industry grapples with regulatory and technical interoperability issues, as different automakers, regions, and charging networks adopt varied charging standards and connectors. This lack of standardization complicates infrastructure rollout and increases manufacturing complexity. Finally, the capital-intensive nature of installing fast-charging stations — which require robust cables and high-power components — poses financial barriers, especially for smaller market entrants and municipalities with limited budgets. Opportunities Amid these challenges, the market is rich with emerging opportunities. One of the most promising areas is the development of smart charging and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technologies, which enable dynamic load management and allow EVs to feed power back into the grid. These solutions are not only efficient but also help stabilize the energy grid, especially with the growing penetration of renewables. Additionally, the rise of subscription-based and bundled service offerings is transforming the traditional EV charging business model. By integrating cable sales with installation, maintenance, and digital monitoring services, providers can create recurring revenue streams and enhance customer retention. The electrification of commercial fleets, particularly in logistics, last-mile delivery, and shared mobility sectors, is another growth frontier. These applications demand robust and high-capacity charging solutions — including specialized cables — to ensure operational efficiency. Lastly, the global shift toward renewable-powered charging stations aligns with net-zero emission goals, opening up new markets for cables that are compatible with solar and wind-powered infrastructure. Buy Now: Recent Developments: 1. TE Connectivity TE Connectivity, a global leader in connectivity and sensor solutions, has recently focused on advancing high-voltage cable assemblies specifically tailored for electric vehicles. In 2024, the company launched its next-generation high-power EV charging cable solutions that support fast charging up to 1000V and are designed to meet stringent thermal management and safety standards. These cables are equipped with advanced shielding to prevent electromagnetic interference, catering to the needs of high-performance EVs and commercial electric fleets. TE has also expanded its production capacity in Europe and North America to meet rising demand, reinforcing its position as a key supplier for OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers. 2. Leoni AG Leoni AG, a prominent German manufacturer of wiring systems and cables, recently announced the development of its new liquid-cooled high-power charging (HPC) cables. These cables allow for ultra-fast charging at power levels exceeding 500 kW, significantly reducing charging time for EVs. The liquid cooling mechanism ensures optimal temperature control, enabling thinner cable designs without compromising safety or performance. Leoni has entered into strategic collaborations with charging station manufacturers across Europe and Asia, aiming to standardize these advanced cable solutions. In 2024, the company also opened a new R&D facility in Romania focused on EV components, including next-gen cable systems. 3. Aptiv PLC Aptiv PLC, a global technology company, continues to expand its footprint in the EV charging ecosystem. In 2024, the company unveiled its 'Smart Vehicle Architecture', integrating high-voltage cable assemblies that enable intelligent energy distribution in electric vehicles. These cables are part of Aptiv's broader electrification platform and are designed to support over-the-air diagnostics and real-time monitoring, enhancing vehicle performance and safety. Aptiv has also partnered with leading EV manufacturers in North America and China to deliver modular cable systems compatible with both AC and DC charging, positioning itself as a key innovator in intelligent charging infrastructure. 4. Phoenix Contact Phoenix Contact, a major player in electrical engineering and automation, has made headlines with its CHARX connect HPC cable system, which supports charging currents of up to 500A at 1000V. This innovation caters specifically to the needs of high-speed charging stations for electric trucks and commercial vehicles. The system features a lightweight ergonomic design and active cooling, ensuring user-friendliness and long-lasting performance. In 2024, the company expanded its CHARX product portfolio by incorporating smart monitoring functions that detect wear and overheating, boosting safety. Phoenix Contact is actively involved in EU-funded projects to accelerate the deployment of standardized ultra-fast EV charging infrastructure across the continent. 5. Sinbon Electronics Sinbon Electronics, a Taiwan-based cable and connector specialist, has strengthened its presence in the global EV charging market with the launch of its ultra-flexible high-durability charging cable line. These cables are designed for harsh outdoor environments, offering high resistance to abrasion, extreme temperatures, and UV radiation. In early 2024, Sinbon signed new supply agreements with EV charging station providers in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, where climate-resilient infrastructure is critical. The company is also focusing on sustainability, developing cables with recyclable materials and low carbon manufacturing processes. This aligns with its broader ESG goals and enhances its appeal to environmentally conscious OEMs. This report is also available in the following languages : Japanese (電気自動車充電サービス市場), Korean (전기 자동차 충전 서비스 시장), Chinese (电动汽车充电服务市场), French (Marché des services de recharge pour véhicules électriques), German (Markt für Ladedienste für Elektrofahrzeuge), and Italian (Mercato dei servizi di ricarica per veicoli elettrici), etc. Get a Sample PDF Brochure: More Research Finding – Lithium Battery Nickel Plated Steel Strips Market The global market for lithium battery nickel plated steel strips is valued at approximately $1.2 billion in 2024, driven by the rising demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems. As the push for renewable energy and sustainable transport accelerates, the market is projected to reach around $2.6 billion by 2034, reflecting significant growth opportunities. SiC Based Power Electronics Market The global market for silicon carbide (SiC) based power electronics is valued at approximately $3.5 billion, with strong growth prospects driven by rising demand in electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy systems, and efficient power management solutions. The market is projected to reach around $12 billion by 2034, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 13.4% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2034. Industrial Power Inverter Market The global industrial power inverter market is valued at approximately $12 billion in 2024, with projected growth driving the market to reach around $22 billion by 2034. This reflects a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.6% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Electric Vehicle EV On Board Charger Market The global electric vehicle (EV) on-board charger market is expected to reach approximately $4.6 billion in 2024. Driven by the increasing adoption of electric vehicles, stringent emissions regulations, and technological advancements in EV charging solutions, the market is projected to grow significantly over the next decade. By 2034, the market value is anticipated to soar to around $10.8 billion, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 8.7% during the forecast period of 2025–2034. Electric Vehicle Busbars Market The global market for electric vehicle (EV) busbars is valued at approximately $1.2 billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow substantially, reaching an estimated $3 billion by 2034, driven by increasing electric vehicle adoption and advancements in charging infrastructure. This results in a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of around 9.4% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Market The global electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure market is valued at approximately $27 billion in 2024. This market is poised for significant expansion, with a projected worth reaching around $71 billion by 2034. This growth represents an impressive Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of about 10.3% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Electric Vehicle Thermal Management System Market The global electric vehicle (EV) thermal management system market is valued at approximately $4.5 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach around $12.8 billion by 2034. This growth represents a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 11.1% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Powder Metallurgy for Electric Vehicles Market The global powder metallurgy (PM) market for electric vehicles (EVs) is poised for significant growth, valued at approximately $8 billion in 2024. As the automotive industry increasingly shifts towards sustainable solutions, the market is projected to reach around $20 billion by 2034, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 9.5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Battery Cooling Plates Market The global market for battery cooling plates is valued at approximately $350 million in 2024, driven by the rising demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy storage systems. As technological advancements improve battery efficiency and longevity, the market is projected to reach around $1 billion by 2034, exhibiting a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Slip Ring for Automobile Generator Market The global slip ring market for automobile generators is valued at approximately $780 million in 2024 and is anticipated to reach around $1.2 billion by 2034. This reflects a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.5% over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Battery Charge Management IC Market The global Battery Charge Management IC (Integrated Circuit) market is projected to reach a value of approximately $8.5 billion in 2024. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for energy-efficient devices, advancements in electric vehicle technology, and rising consumer electronics usage. From 2025 to 2034, the market is anticipated to expand significantly, with a projected value of around $14 billion, translating to a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of about 6.6%. Lithium-ion Battery Equipment Market The global lithium-ion battery equipment market is poised for significant growth, with a projected market value of approximately $35 billion in 2024. This sector is anticipated to expand to around $85 billion by 2034, reflecting robust demand driven by increasing electric vehicle (EV) adoption and renewable energy storage solutions. The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) for the period from 2025 to 2034 is estimated to be around 9.1%. NEV IGBT Modules Heatsink Market The global market for Electric Vehicle (EV) IGBT modules, particularly focusing on heatsinks, is valued at approximately $1.2 billion. The market is projected to reach around $3.6 billion by 2034, reflecting significant growth spurred by the increasing demand for electric vehicles and advancements in power semiconductor technology. The forecast period from 2025 to 2034 indicates a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 12.1%. High-end Passenger Cars Market The global high-end passenger car market is valued at approximately $500 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach around $800 billion by 2034. This ambitious growth reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 5.1% over the forecast period of 2025-2034. Anode Materials for Li-Ion Battery Market The global anode materials market for lithium-ion batteries is poised for substantial growth. As of 2024, the market is valued at approximately $12 billion, driven by the increasing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy storage solutions. Projections indicate a market value of around $22 billion by 2034, reflecting a robust expansion over the forecast period. Industrial Cabinet Air Conditioner Market The global industrial cabinet air conditioner market is valued at approximately $1.2 billion in 2024, with projections indicating growth to around $2.0 billion by 2034. This forecast represents a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of about 6.2% during the period from 2025 to 2034. Silicon Carbide Heating Element Market The global silicon carbide (SiC) heating element market is valued at approximately $450 million, reflecting a robust demand for energy-efficient heating solutions across various industries. The projected market value for the period 2025-2034 is expected to exceed $1 billion, driven by advancements in semiconductor technologies and a growing preference for sustainable manufacturing processes. Optical Current Transformer Market The global optical current transformer (OCT) market is poised for substantial growth, valued at approximately $650 million in 2024. Projections indicate that the market will reach an estimated $1.2 billion by 2034, reflecting the increasing demand for precise and reliable electricity measurement solutions. The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) for the forecast period from 2025 to 2034 is anticipated to be around 6.5%. Rubber Recycling Market The rubber recycling market is poised for robust growth, valued at approximately $6.5 billion in 2024. The market is expected to expand significantly, reaching an estimated $10 billion by 2034, driven by increased environmental awareness and regulatory pressures. This translates to a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of around 5% for the forecast period from 2025 to 2034. Ethernet PHY Chips Market The Ethernet PHY chips market is projected to be valued at approximately $3.5 billion in 2024, with significant growth anticipated during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034, potentially reaching around $6.8 billion. This indicates a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of roughly 7% over the next decade, driven by increasing demand for faster, more reliable networking solutions. CONTACT: Contact Data Irfan Tamboli (Head of Sales) Phone: + 1704 266 3234 Email: sales@ in to access your portfolio
Newsweek
7 days ago
- Automotive
- Newsweek
Tesla Sales Cut in Half in Europe
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Tesla vehicle sales plunged in Europe last month, dealing a blow to CEO Elon Musk. Despite overall electric battery car sales rising, sales of the vehicles made by the U.S. company dropped 49 percent in April compared to the same time last year. Newsweek has contacted Tesla for comment by email. Why It Matters Tesla's dwindling sales in Europe show a shift away from the brand toward Chinese competition. Some analysts see the decline as a response to Musk's government role. As head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the billionaire has overseen cuts to U.S. government agencies. Critics may cite the protests at Tesla sites around the world and the slump in European sales as evidence that the company's brand has been hurt by its CEO's political activities, which include supporting far-right figures. Cars charging at a Tesla Supercharger in Hawthorne, California, on May 2. Cars charging at a Tesla Supercharger in Hawthorne, California, on May 2. JayWhat To Know In April, Tesla sold 7,261 cars in Europe, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association, which recorded a drop of 49 percent year over year. The EV maker's market share declined to 0.7 percent from 1.3 percent in April 2024. The slump came as overall battery electric car sales rose by 34.1 percent annually. Tesla launched an upgraded version of its Model Y sport utility vehicle in 2025, but its overall lineup of cars has had no new mass-market offering so far this year, CNBC reported. According to the outlet, the firm sells only full battery-power vehicles and does not have hybrid electric cars, which European buyers have shown a preference for. Tesla also faces competition from traditional automakers and Chinese manufacturers, with data last week showing that the auto giant BYD sold more pure electric cars in Europe than Tesla for the first time. Tesla reported global deliveries of 336,681 for the first quarter of this year, falling well short of the 390,342 expectation, according to Bloomberg consensus estimates, and resulting in the worst quarter for deliveries in almost three years. What People Are Saying Tesla CEO Elon Musk told Bloomberg's Qatar Economic Forum last week: "Europe is our weakest market. We're strong everywhere else. So our sales are doing well at this point. We don't anticipate any meaningful sales shortfall." What Happens Next Musk, who indicated in recent weeks that he would take a step back from DOGE, said on X, formerly Twitter on Saturday that he was "back to spending 24/7 at work and sleeping in conference/server/factory rooms." Russ Mould, the investment director at AJ Bell, said that given the increase in European EV sales overall, the brand damage caused by Musk's political interventions "may be lasting," Yahoo Finance reported. Though Tesla faces further challenges, particularly outside the U.S., Musk remains optimistic about the company's growth trajectory for 2025.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Kia joins Tesla's Supercharger network after months-long delay
This story was originally published on Automotive Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Automotive Dive newsletter. Kia electric vehicles can officially charge on Tesla's Supercharger network, according to an April 24 press release. Kia EV6, EV9 and Niro owners can now use an additional 21,500 vehicle charging stations, increasing charging station availability for Kia EV drivers by more than 80% and totaling access to more than 40,000 fast chargers, the company said. Kia was originally set to join Tesla's Supercharger network in January but was delayed due to unspecified 'technical issues.' 'Expanding the network of available DC fast chargers to our EV customers is an important component to maintaining the brand's leadership in electrified mobility,' Seungkyu (Sean) Yoon, president and CEO of Kia North America and Kia America, said in a statement. 'Now, with access to the Tesla Supercharger network of DC fast chargers, our EV owners can feel even more confident in their decision to purchase or lease a fully electric Kia vehicle.' Kia joins a long list of automakers granted access to Tesla's fast-charging stations. Other EVs that can use the Supercharger network include those made by Ford, General Motors, Hyundai, Lucid, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Polestar, Rivian and Volvo. Honda will join the Supercharger network in June. Most automakers offer adapters that their customers can purchase in order to use Tesla's North American Charging Standard ports, but Kia said its 2025 EV6 and 2026 EV9 both feature NACS charging ports. Owners of current EV6, EV9 and Niro models can purchase adapters at Kia dealers, the company said, though any Kia drivers who purchased or leased their 2024 or 2025 EV9 or 2024 EV6 vehicles after Sept. 4, 2024 are eligible to receive free adapters. By the end of the year, nearly all automakers will have access to the Supercharger network. Recommended Reading Honda gains access to Tesla Supercharger network
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Polestar names new North America leader
This story was originally published on Automotive Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Automotive Dive newsletter. Polestar named Rick Bryant as its new head of North America, effective May 12, the EV maker announced. Bryant was most recently Polestar's head of operations, per his LinkedIn profile. He also has more than three decades of experience in the automotive industry, holding several executive roles at Volvo Car USA. Kristian Elvefors, chief commercial officer at Polestar, said in a statement that Bryant has advanced the company's transformation into a sales-driven organization in North America. 'His leadership and deep industry expertise make him ideally suited to guide the next phase of our growth,' Elvefors said. Bryant will succeed Anders Gustafsson who departed the company May 11, per the release. Gustafsson has served as president of Polestar North America since July 2024, according to his LinkedIn profile. Prior to joining Polestar, he was SVP Americas and president and CEO of Volvo Car USA. Volvo once held a majority interest in Polestar, but has been gradually reducing its stake. Volvo's parent China-based Zhejiang Geely Holding, also a Polestar investor, has since increased its ownership position in the EV maker. In Q1, Polestar saw a 76% year-over-year increase in global sales of more than 12,300 vehicles. Recommended Reading Polestar's US customers gain Tesla Supercharger access
