EV Daily | Tesla Faces European Sales Drop; Kia Gains Supercharger Access; Slate Unveils Affordable EV

【Tesla】

Tesla is facing a significant decline in sales in Europe despite a surge in electric vehicle sales across the continent. Tesla's sales fell 37% in the first quarter of the year, with March sales alone down by more than 28%. The decline is not solely due to the Model Y changeover, as Tesla is now back to full capacity but still lags behind in the current quarter. Incentives like free Supercharging and 0% interest on the new Model Y in Europe have not reversed the downturn. Tesla's inability to address this trend could reduce its annual sales in Europe to fewer than 200,000 vehicles. The Model Y inventory is replenished in the US, but challenges persist with demand issues in China and Europe. Despite incentives in various markets, there is no backlog for the new Model Y in the US. Tesla produced about 30,000 more vehicles than delivered in the first quarter, increasing its inventory by $1.7 billion. Tesla is facing difficulty in selling the older Model Y inventory in Europe.

【Others】

Kia EVs now have access to Tesla's Supercharger network in North America, increasing their charging options. This applies to the EV6, EV9, and Niro EV models. Kia joins other brands like Ford, GM, and Rivian in gaining access to these chargers.

A new player, Slate, has emerged with a budget-friendly EV pickup, priced below $20,000 after US tax incentives. The vehicle can transform from a 2-seat pickup to a 5-seat SUV and offers over 100 accessories for customization. Slate aims to provide affordable EV options, contrasting with higher-priced competitors like Ford and Rivian. The company plans to begin customer deliveries in Q4 2026.

Polestar 2's safety is highlighted when a bullet reportedly hit its window without penetrating, showcasing the vehicle's durability. Despite some skepticism about the incident's specifics, the car and the driver emerged unharmed.

InMotion's V9 electric unicycle offers urban commuters a viable option with its advanced features like a 1,000W motor, 37-mile range, and Nimbus Air suspension for enhanced comfort. It is priced at $1,299 and includes smart features such as GPS tracking and customizable lights.

Volkswagen partners with Uber to deploy autonomous ID. Buzz vans in the US, starting in Los Angeles with commercial rides expected by 2026. MOIA will supply vehicles and software, marking a step forward in the robotaxi sector.

Greenlane launches its first electric truck stop in Colton, California, with 41 chargers and plans to expand its network. Its technology rollout ensures efficient fleet operations.

Everrati's electric Porsche 911 restomod retains the spirit of the original while integrating modern technology. The vehicle is lighter than its gas counterpart and features a 62kWh battery and customizable options.

Electric unicycles like the InMotion V9 are becoming viable urban transportation options, offering advanced features for a competitive price. With its light weight and robust battery, the V9 suits city commuting and short distance travel.