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Tesla shareholders have voted for the questions they want to ask Elon Musk and Tesla’s management at the upcoming earning results this week. The questions have something in common: they are primarily about failed promises.

It should be interesting to see Elon Musk skate around all those questions.

Tesla is going to release its Q4 2024 and full-year 2024 financial results on Wednesday after market close.

After the release of the results, Tesla will hold a conference call where it will take questions from Wall Street analysts and Tesla shareholders.

The shareholders can vote on the questions to be asked on the Say Technologies platform.

Here, I’ve included a list of the most upvoted questions, and I’ve found a common thread: most of them involve failed promises.

Unsurprisingly, the first question is about “unsupervised full self-driving” (FSD). It’s on top of most Tesla shareholders’ minds as CEO Elon Musk himself claims that Tesla is worthless if it can’t deliver on self-driving – something Musk said would happen by the end of every year for the past 5 years.

Musk’s latest timeline for unsupervised FSD was communicated during Tesla’s last earnings when he claimed Tesla would launch “unsupervised FSD in California and Texas around Q2 2025”.

With the timeline approaching fast, shareholders are asking whether or not it’s still happening:

Is unsupervised FSD still planned to be released in Texas and California this year? What hurdles still exist to make this happen?

As we recently reported, the latest data about FSD shows that Tesla is at fewer than 500 miles between critical disengagement, while the head of the FSD program recently said that unsupervised should achieve a disengagement equivalent to the human collision rate: 1 every 670,000 miles.

It’s also possible that Tesla will release a smaller geo-fenced fleet of self-driving vehicles instead of its broader promised unsupervised self-driving for its customer fleet. In that case, it would require lesser performance, but it would still need a roughly 50x increase over the current performance.

The second most upvoted question is about Optimus:

When will Tesla start selling Optimus and price?

Last year, Musk said that Tesla should use its Optimus humanoid robot more inside the company in 2025 and sell it to third parties in 2026.

The next question is about Musk giving equity access in his private companies to Tesla shareholders:

Elon has said publicly that long term shareholders of Tesla will have the ability to invest in his other companies. Could you provide some clarity/color as to what that looks like? Brokerage firms use FIFO so anyone who trades won’t have the true length of time as investor.

That’s something that he has been talking about for years with SpaceX, but he never made it happen.

Tesla shareholders are also upvoting a question about making FSD transfer permanent:

Can you please tie purchased FSD to our owner accounts vs. locked to the car? This will help us enjoy it in any Tesla we drive/buy and reward us for hanging in so long, some of us since 2017.

This has been asked several times on Tesla earnings call and Musk has always said no. He prefers using a “transfer window” as demand triggers rather than doing the right thing and letting people transfer the software package that they paid for, but Tesla never fully delivers.

I wrote a whole article about this last weekend, explaining how Tesla is doing the wrong thing here.

The next question is about cheaper Tesla vehicles:

Is there a new affordable Tesla model coming soon?

This is something Tesla has been promising for years, but Musk has steered Tesla away from it. He canceled Tesla’s planned “$25,000 model” – saying that it was useless amid self-driving.

Over the last few years, he had Tesla focused on the Cybertruck and Robotaxi instead.

More recently, Tesla had to course correct amid declining sales and they announced two new cheaper models based on Model 3 and Model Y that are supposed to come in the first half of 2025. That appears to be what the shareholders want an update on with this question.

Next, they want to know the status of the Tesla Semi:

What is the status on mass production of the Tesla Semi? How do you project it will affect revenue at scale?

Tesla Semi is one of Tesla’s most delayed vehicle programs. It was first unveiled in 2017 and it was supposed to go into production in 2020. It then entered into a low-volume pilot production in late 2022, and it is only now expected to go into volume production next year.

The start of production at the new factory for the electric truck is expected by the end of 2025.

The next question is about HW3 computers:

Is it expected that Tesla will need to upgrade HW3 vehicles and if so, what is the timeline and expected impact to Tesla’s CapEx?

For almost a year, we have been reporting that HW3 computers have reached their limits. At the last earnings call, Musk finally admitted it might be true.

Since then, HW3 vehicles have fallen further behind HW4 vehicles, but there’s no plan for a retrofit in sight.

The last question asked whether Tesla is giving up on the solar roof:

Has Tesla given up on ramping their solar roof product?

That’s a fair question. Musk once said that Tesla would produce 1,000 new solar roofs per week by the end of 2019, but by 2022, our data pointed to about 23 solar roofs per week.

Tesla has since stopped even reporting its solar deployment.

Electrek’s Take

I predict that Tesla will double down on Optimus with this earnings call and/or announce or unveil their cheaper vehicles.

Optimus gets a lot of flak, but I think Tesla can solve humanoid robots before it can solve self-driving. There’s value in humanoid robots, not nearly as much as Elon claims, as it is often the case, but I think they will start leaning more on that to wow investors than self-driving.

The only other things that meaningfully drive earnings are cheaper vehicles. Tesla previously said that those would launch in the first half of 2025 so they are basically due to be unveiled. I would expect something to be announced on that front.

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Kia EV Day 2025 recap: EV4 is coming to US, plus an up-close look at the EV2 and PV5 [Video]

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Kia EV Day 2025 recap: EV4 is coming to US, plus an up-close look at the EV2 and PV5 [Video]

Kia recently held its annual EV Day event overseas, and we were one of the select outlets invited to attend in person. During that time, Kia executives outlined the Korean brand’s global EV strategy, which reiterated its unwavering approach to going all-electric, bolstered by several new models that made global debuts, including the Concept EV2, PV5 lineup, and the Kia EV4, which we learned will officially be sold in the US.

Kia continues to establish itself as a bona fide mover in the EV segment as part of a larger electrification strategy from the parent company, Hyundai Motor Group. The Group’s decision to invest in advanced platform technology early on culminated in the E-GMP platform, the 800—or 400-volt nucleus of all its bespoke EV models. This platform has already paid dividends in the market growth of all its marques, particularly Hyundai and Kia.

The Korean marque found early success with its EV6 and EV9 models and has since introduced several additional vehicles set to join the lineup, including the EV3, EV4, and EV5. Additionally, Kia shared plans to enter the commercial EV segment with a new lineup of modular BEVs called “Platform Beyond Vehicles,” or PBVs for short.

During Kia’s second annual EV Day event, these models and some additional surprises were on display in Tarragona, Spain. We were there in person to get an up-close look at the nine different models on display (see the video recap below) and have some exciting news to share about Kia EVs and the US market.

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Kia unveils EV4 and confirms it’s coming to the US

Much of Kia’s EV Day 2025 touched upon new models designed for Korean and European markets, hence why the event was held in Spain, but there were some juicy tidbits for North American customers, including news that the new EV4, which was unveiled in Tarragona, will enter the US market.

The EV4 initially debuted as a concept model at the 2024 LA Auto Show alongside the EV3 concept, which has since been confirmed for the US market. We have been covering all the glimpses of the EV4 since, which has expanded into sedan and hatchback configurations.

During EV Day 2025, Kia officially unveiled both four- and five-door versions of the EV4, described as an “athletic all-rounder launched to redefine the C-segment.” This is another core model in Kia’s global EV strategy and the automaker’s first dedicated sedan hatchback EV.

When it arrives, it will offer the best-in-class cabin and cargo space (490 liters in the sedan and 435 liters in the hatchback) and is currently being optimized to deliver the best-in-class EV range. Kia is also targeting another IIHS Top Safety Pick award for this model, and it will be the first in the EV lineup to feature over-the-air (OTA) updates available through the Kia App. Here are some key specs:

  • Battery size: Standard (58.3 kWh) and Long Range (81.4 kWh) packs will be available
  • The Long Range battery is expected to deliver up to 630km (392 miles) of WLTP range, and 430 km (267 miles) of range in the Standard model
    • The long-range hatchback version can deliver up to 590km (367 miles) of WLTP range
  • A full underbody cover contributes to aerodynamic performance and a drag coefficient of 0.23 Cd
  • A front-mounted 150 kW motor can accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 7.4 seconds with the standard pack and 7.7 seconds with the long range battery.
    • Both battery variants can reach a top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph)
  • It features a 400V E-GMP platform, enabling the long-range pack to charge from 10-80% in 31 minutes (29 minutes for the standard pack)
  • Comes equipped with vehicle-to-load (V2L) (3.6 kVa) and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) (10 kVa) capabilities with an 11 kW onboard charger

Here’s a closer look at the sedan version:

Source: Kia

The Kia EV4 will also arrive with new tech, including Digital Key 2.0, which allows your smartphone to act as a key and is compatible with Apple Watch. The BEV also features i-Pedal 3.0 regenerative braking, which we recently tested in the 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5.

Another feature is “Rest Mode,” which utilizes front-row relaxation seats and a mood lamp to create a comfortable atmosphere while parked and/or charging. Theater mode optimizes the dashboard’s 30″ display, mood lighting, and optional Harmon/Kardon 8-speaker sound system for video streaming on newly added services like YouTube, Netflix, and Disney+.

Per Kia, the EV4 sedan will be built at its new EVO Plant in Korea, and the hatchback version will be built in Slovakia for targeted sales in Europe only. Sedan production will begin in Korea in mid-March, followed by hatchback production in the second half of 2025. Production for North America is planned for later this year, but we do not have a more concrete timeline yet.

Kia President Ho Sung Song told the crowd the automaker is targeting a build of 160,000 units of the EV4, 80,000 of which will be sold in North America. Kia said it targets a starting MSRP of 37,000 euros for the EV4. While we don’t have US pricing yet, Mr. Song told reporters the US dollar and Euro are pretty even right now, so we can expect US pricing to be similarly competitive to Europe, at least for the entry-level model.

Kia debuts the Concept EV2 alongside the EV4

In addition to the EV4, Kia unveiled its new Concept EV2 – its smallest BEV model to date, representing the automaker’s “vision for a B-segment all-electric SUV.—its smallest BEV model to date.” Per Kia President and CEO, Ho Sung Song:

The Kia Concept EV2 represents a bold step forward for the future of urban mobility. With the Concept EV2, we challenged ourselves to create a vehicle that defies expectations, offering innovative technology and practicality beyond its size. This concept previews Kia’s future vision to redefine the segment, bringing a new level of sophistication and usability to urban drivers. It’s a clear signal of our dedication to making electric vehicles truly accessible for everyone.

While the EV2 remains a concept for now, Kia expressed a goal to deliver a production version that closely resembles it. Kia’s executive vice president and head of global design, Karim Habib, told the media that it is much easier to accomplish on a vehicle’s exterior. Still, it will try to bring as many elements of the EV2 interior to the masses as well.

We hope Kia will continue to incorporate sustainable materials in the EV2’s interior as well as its unique seat configuration, which includes a folding second row, a sliding front bench, and rear-hinged back doors, which allow the BEV to open up for an innovative spot to hang out. Here’s a detailed look from Kia:

Source: Kia

Per Kia, the EV2 is targeting a starting MSRP of 30,000 euros but, unfortunately, is not planned for a US launch, just Europe and “other regions” in 2026.

Our best look at the PV5, which may or may not come to the US

In addition to the EV4 and Concept EV2 debuts, Kia also shared complete details of its PV5 EVs, the first model from its new PBV lineup to hit the market. The Korean automaker drove four unique variants onto the stage in Spain, showcasing the PV5’s modularity atop Kia’s new E-GMP.S platform, designed specifically for those vehicles. The “s” stands for “service.”

Kia describes the PV5 as a Car-Derived Van (CDV) offered in three body styles: Passenger, Cargo, and Chassis Cab. The variants on display were Passenger, Cargo, Crew, and WAV, which stands for “Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle.”

While these are commercial BEVs at their core, Kia has taken a welcomed sales approach and will sell them to the public as well. That means the everyday consumer can get their hands on one and design it to their liking using Kia AddGear, enabling customers to choose from a wide range of custom accessories for personal and business use.

On the commercial side, Kia announced several partnerships to empower fleet customers with cutting-edge software with the help of companies like 42dot, Geotab, and Samsung. Furthermore, the PBV’s Android Automotive Operating System (AAOS) will allow commercial customers to integrate their own software into fleets. Here are some key specs:

  • Choice of a 51.5 kWh or 71.2 kWh NMC battery pack for all versions, plus the option for an additional 43.3 kWh LFP battery in the PV5 Cargo
  • All versions feature a 150 kW front motor than can produce 250 Nm of torque
  • The PV5 Passenger with the larger pack delivers a range up to 400km (249 miles)
  • All versions can charge from 10-80% in 30 minutes
  • PV5 Passenger: A three-row seat configuration that can be optimized for luggage or camping scenarios and has been developed with ride-hailing use cases in mind (Kia has partnered with Uber)
  • The PV5 Cargo (High Roof): This variant offers up to 5.1 m³ of capacity, with standard, long, and high-roof options available. There is also an optional L-track mounting system and V2L functionality
  • The PV5 Chassis Cab: It will be delivered as an unfinished vehicle, with a shared cabin, which utilizes the front section of the PV5 Cargo. It was developed with modularity to support a range of conversion configurations, from Drop Side to Freezer Box models

Other variants in the works include the PV5 Crew, which features various cargo securing options like lashing points and L-tracks, plus the PV5 WAV (both pictured above), which comes equipped with a sliding ramp that supports up to 300 kg (661 lbs) and can be positioned on the road or the sidewalk, as well as hardware to secure the wheelchair during transit.

My first thought after seeing the modularity of the PV5 was “electric camper van,” so when I interviewed Mr. Song, it was the first thing I asked. The Kia President could not confirm a camper version of the PV5 or larger PV7 was coming but did say it was being discussed. You may remember Kia unveiled a similar PV5 concept called the WKNDR at SEMA 2024, so this feels imminent and could sell well. Furthermore, Kia’s press release outlining the 2025 Kia EV Day event specifically mentioned a camper option:

Additionally, Kia has developed the Flexible Body System, an innovative technology that enables the modular assembly of body components, akin to assembling a puzzle. This capability allows Kia to effectively address the diverse needs of its customers by providing standard models including Passenger, Cargo, Chassis-Cab, WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle), and Family. Additionally, it will feature conversion models including the Crew, Drop Side, Box Van, Freezer Box, Prime (advanced model based on Passenger), and Light Camper.

Kia said the PV5 Cargo will have a starting MSRP of 35,000 euros, including VAT, and other models will be “priced competitively.”

Like the EV4, the PBVs will be built at Kia’s new dedicated EVO plant in Korea, which also includes a conversion facility next door for those customized builds. Kia shared that PV5 sales will begin in Korea and Europe in July, followed by launches in additional markets in 2026. Conversion models are also expected to begin production “sequentially” between 2025 and 2026.

But will the PV5 come to the US? This question came up multiple times during executive interviews, but we still don’t have a concrete answer. Mr. Song confirmed that the PV5 would be sold in Canada but cited the United States’ “chicken tax” as a hurdle for market entry in the US.

Given that information, it is hard to believe Kia won’t find a workaround to get its PV5s imported into the US market, but that has been all but confirmed so far. That will undoubtedly be a process to keep an eye on.

Other key highlights from Kia EV Day 2025

Overall, EV Day 2025 showcased Kia’s continued dedication to BEVs and its impressive innovation in the space, including variety, modularity, and advanced technology. I always reiterate that Hyundai Motor Group appears to be doing everything right, and you can look at the growing global market share of both Hyundai and Kia in recent years as clear evidence of modularity.

What I found most impressive was President Song’s unwavering support of Kia’s all-electric future, which entails staying the course set out when the Korean automaker rebranded itself in 2021. Mr. Song said that the automaker has no plans to backtrack to ICE vehicles like some competitors. Tariffs came up a lot in interviews, and Mr. Song took a moment to gather his thoughts before addressing the looming threat to the room.

His sentiment was that the threat of tariffs in the US is scary, but it affects most automakers, not just Hyundai Motor Group. Kia plans to keep the best interests of its customers in mind. The location of EV production and its position in the market are key factors in its business strategy. Still, if tariffs arise, Kias is ready to pivot its strategy to continue providing customers with the best technology at a competitive price (again, there was no mention of steering away from BEVs at all). That’s refreshing to hear.

Chinese BEVs also came up in interviews, and Mr. Song’s response was forthcoming and honest (again quite refreshing from a CEO):

Chinese brands are a big burden to all OEMs. Their prices are significantly lower, and they’re growing in new markets. We are growing too. Maybe someone is losing market share, but we aren’t. We cannot catch up with that price gap, but will continue to improve our technology and customer experience.

Alongside potential plans for the PV5 in the US, Kia executives also told the media that it is exploring the possibility of bringing the EV5 to the US but cannot confirm anything at this time. So, in total, we know the US will see sales of the Kia EV3 and EV4 for sure; the PV5 and EV5 are question marks, and the EV2 is a definitive no.

Overall, Kia’s EV Day 2035 showcased the brand’s continued innovation and expansion into new segments led by some of the best bang for your buck in technology and charging capabilities. Like Hyundai, Kia is becoming an absolute vanguard in BEVs (one of its internal goals), which is why its market share continues to grow (see evidence above). Here’s an up-close look at some of the sights from EV Day 2025, including footage of the EV4 sedan, hatchback, and GT-Line.

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Electric Bike Company merges with Integral Electrics following Pedego partnership

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Electric Bike Company merges with Integral Electrics following Pedego partnership

Several well-known players in the US electric bicycle market have recently joined forces in creative ways. Electric Bike Company, known for its local manufacturing in Southern California, has just announced a major merger with Integral Electrics, an e-bike brand uniquely designing electric bicycles for women and other short statured riders.

Both Electric Bike Company and Integral Electrics have carved out interesting niches in the industry. EBC has become famous for its extremely customizable electric bicycles. Riders can choose everything from the specific paint color to the combination of components and even the material choices – locally manufactured wooden fenders, anyone?

With multiple assembly locations across Newport Beach in Southern California, the local production has allowed EBC to respond quickly to one-of-a-kind builds that are designed by customers on its website or in any of hundreds of dealer locations around the US. The extreme customization has lent itself well to a market where customers often want to create unique bikes that show off personality and character.

Integral Electrics has also found itself an underrepresented market, but this time with a focus on female riders. The brand focuses on making cycling more accessible, regardless of a rider’s gender, height, or cycling experience. The company’s e-bikes are built to fit a wider range of riders, carry multiple children, and make cycling easier for everyone.

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The company’s founder and CEO Laura Belmar started Integral Electrics back in 2023 along with co-founder Paul Freedom, relying on her own experience struggling to find a cargo e-bike that she could comfortably ride with her children. A serial entrepreneur with successful ventures already under her belt, Belmar followed her instincts and tapped into that underserved market.

Now Integral Electrics and Electric Bike Company are merging under a single brand, with Integral Electric’s designs joining the EBC family. EBC has several famous models available, but the brand has long skewed more in the direction of cruisers and comfort bikes. The addition of Integral Electric’s cargo bikes and trikes will help further round out the diversity of models offered.

“Integral’s emphasis on female riders and on cargo e-bikes is a welcome addition to the EBC family,” said EBC founder and CEO Sean Lupton-Smith. “We want to stay on the cutting edge of where the e-bike market is headed, and Integral’s innovative approach helps push us forward.”

And with EBC’s local manufacturing, those bikes will be made closer to home than ever. “Building in the USA also has distinct safety advantages,” explained Belmar. “From my first visit to Electric Bike Company’s California factory, I have been indelibly impressed by the emphasis on quality and safety. Shipping bikes fully built and inspected is so much safer for customers. Electric Bike Company has already achieved one of our long-held aspirations. I’m honored to be part of this team.”

In a climate of tariff uncertainty, the ability to build and assemble bikes locally is becoming even more advantageous. “As tariffs, regulation and competition put pressure on the e-bike industry, Sean’s focus on customization and safety at Electric Bike Company was prescient,” added Freeman. “As we look around the industry, it’s clear that he has built a business that is well-positioned to meet this moment.”

electric bike company model j customization

As part of the merger, Belmar will assume the role of President and Chief Commercial Officer at EBC, and Integral Electrics’ Advisor Michael Edwards will join the EBC board.

The news of the merger follows quickly behind another major EBC partnership that saw Pedego ink a licensing deal with the brand to leverage EBC’s customization strengths to produce unique customer-designed Pedego e-bikes.

In addition to rolling out EBC’s Design Wall at many of Pedego’s stores, allowing customers to visually construct any e-bike combination right there in real-time on a large touchscreen, the partnership adds Pedego’s 150+ stores to EBC’s 250+ dealer network, giving customers access to one of the most extensive e-bike sales and service networks in the country.

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Honda’s $99 Prologue EV lease offer is too good to be true, but it’s still a crazy deal right now

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Honda's  Prologue EV lease offer is too good to be true, but it's still a crazy deal right now

A nearly $50,000 electric SUV for just $99 a month? If that sounds too good to be true, it’s because it kind of is. One Honda dealer is promoting a Prologue lease offer for just $99 for 24 months, but you may have a hard time getting your hands on one.

Honda Prologue EV listed for lease at just $99 per month

Honda’s electric SUV is already one of the most popular EVs in the US. In December, it was the third top-selling electric vehicle trailing only the Tesla Model Y and Model 3.

Since the first models hit the streets last March, the Prologue climbed to become the seventh best-selling EV in 2024, beating out Chevy’s new Equinox EV and even the Rivian R1S.

Although Honda, like most, is offering generous discounts to clear inventory, one dealer is taking it to the extreme.

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Buena Park Honda in California is promoting a Honda Prologue lease deal for just $99 for 24 months (plus taxes) with a $3,977 down payment. The crazy low offer is for the 2024 Prologue EX FWD with 10,000 miles a year, but there’s a catch.

Honda-$99-Prologue-offer
Honda Prologue listed for lease at just $99 per month (Source: Buena Park Honda)

For one, there’s only one model listed in its inventory, and it’s the Elite trim, listed at $51,850 (MSRP of $59,350 minus the $7,500 federal EV tax credit). You will also need a trade-in vehicle, including a 2014 or newer Honda or competitor brand.

A salesperson from the dealership told online auto research firm CarsDirect that the EX models are out of stock because they are “really hard to get your hands on.”

Honda-$99-Prologue-offer
2024 Honda Prologue Elite (Source: Honda)

Also, if you factor in the down payment and $595 acquisition fee, the effective cost is $295 per month. That’s only slightly better than the official $239 for a 24-month lease offer Honda is promoting. With just $1,499 due at signing, the effective rate is $301 per month, or just $6 more.

2024 Honda Prologue trim Starting Price
(w/o $1,395
destination fee)
Starting price after
tax credit

(w/o $1,395
destination fee)
Starting price after
tax credit

(with $1,395
destination fee)
EPA Range
(miles)
EX (FWD) $47,400 $39,900 $41,295 296
EX (AWD) $50,400 $42,900 $44,295 281
Touring (FWD) $51.700 $44,200 $45,595 296
Touring (AWD) $54,700 $47,200 $48,595 281
Elite (AWD) $57,900 $50,400 $51,795 273
2024 Honda Prologue prices and range by trim

Although this is offered in California and other CARB emissions states, the Prologue is on sale in different regions for just $209 for 24 months. With $2,699 due at signing, the effective rate is still just $321 per month.

Honda says the Prologue “delivers the same level of quality, reliability, and performance” you expect from the brand.

Honda-$99-Prologue-EV-offer
2024 Honda Prologue Elite interior (Source: Honda)

Based on GM’s Ultium platform, the electric SUV has an EPA-estimated range of up to 296 miles. Although it shares GM’s tech, Honda fine-tuned the Prologue with an added multi-link front and rear suspension to give it a more “sporty” drive.

The Prologue has more interior space, with 111.7 cu ft of passenger volume, than the Honda CR-V (106 cu ft). It also features an 11.3″ touch-screen infotainment system with built-in Google, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto support, something GM has moved away from.

Ready to find deals in your area? Although it may not be $99, these offers are hard to pass up for a nearly $50,000 electric SUV. Check out our link to find deals on the Honda Prologue near you today.

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