ELECTREK PODCAST: TESLA EARNINGS, NEW SOFTWARE-LOCKED BATTERY, KIA NIRO EV, AND MORE

EV Channels Review

This episode of the Electrek Podcast delves into Tesla's Q4 earnings, revealing a second consecutive quarter of profitability and a focus on cost management with reduced capital expenditure projections for 2019. Key discussions include Tesla's updated Model 3 production targets, with 7,000 units/week expected from Fremont and 3,000 from Gigafactory 3 in China by year-end. The podcast also covers the upcoming Model Y, with volume production likely at Gigafactory 1 by the end of 2020, though production location remains unconfirmed. A significant point of contention is Tesla's new software-locked battery pack for Model S and X, which offers reduced capacity at a lower price point, a move seen as a business-savvy but potentially disappointing hardware decision. The review also touches on the Tesla Corsa event, showcasing Model 3 performance on track, and the launch of the Kia Niro EV, praised for its efficiency and potential value if priced competitively. Finally, the podcast notes the retirement of Tesla CFO Deepak Ahuja and the ongoing legislative battles against direct sales bans.