Tesla appears to be moving toward the release of its long-awaited affordable EV, but recent reports suggest the automaker might offer a more basic version of one of its existing models rather than introduce an all-new or robotaxi-inspired vehicle. On its recent earnings call, the automaker hinted that it wants to adapt its existing processes and products for the effort.
CFO Vaibhav Taneja said, “Using our existing lines, there’s always limitations as to how many different form factors you can bring. So that’s the way you should think about it. With the recent upgrades to the Model 3 and Model Y platforms, we’ve made some pretty great cars at pretty great prices, and we’ve added a bunch of features. Our intent is not to make a car that is any worse than any car we’ve ever produced in the past. The models that come out in the next months will resemble in form and shape the cars that we currently make, and the key is that they will be affordable and that you’ll be able to buy one.”
While Tesla’s tariff exposure is less intense than that of its rivals, the automaker has seen tumbling sales and revenue as CEO Elon Musk’s political involvement has led to protests and a number of other problems for the company. It’s unclear whether a new, affordable EV would help drive sales, but it’s likely one of the best levers Tesla can pull to help right the ship.
[Images: Tesla]
Become a TTAC insider. Get the latest news, features, TTAC takes, and everything else that gets to the truth about cars first by subscribing to our newsletter.
