According to media reports citing sources, Tesla has delayed its plan to manufacture an affordable version of the Model Y in the US.
Tesla had promised to launch an economical car model in H1 to boost sluggish sales.
According to insiders, the low-cost Model Y, internally codenamed E41, was originally planned to start mass production in the US, but is now expected to be delayed by at least several months compared to Tesla's public commitment, possibly pushed to Q3 this year or early next year.
The specific reasons for the delay remain unclear.
It is reported that Tesla plans to produce 250,000 units of the low-cost Model Y in the US by 2026. The new car is also expected to be produced in China and Europe in the future.
Tesla is scheduled to release its earnings report after the US market closes next Tuesday, and the plan to launch the new car model is expected to be a focus of external attention.
Tesla's affordable car models have always been a focus for investors, as the company's current main sales models are the Model 3 and Model Y. Faced with slowing EV demand and increasing competition, Tesla had hoped to launch an economical EV to reverse the trend of declining sales and market share loss.
Insiders also revealed that Tesla is planning to launch a simplified version of the Model 3.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk had promised to launch a brand-new affordable car model priced at around $25,000, which the public referred to as the Model 2. However, Tesla chose to prioritize the development of Robotaxi (autonomous taxis), putting the Model 2 project on hold.
Tesla's data released in early January showed that its annual deliveries declined for the first time last year.
Analysts predict that Tesla's sales may drop again this year, due to factors including Musk's close cooperation with US President Trump and his support for far-right politicians in Europe, which are damaging Tesla's brand image.
Currently, car manufacturers generally face risks of rising prices and supply chain disruptions, especially after Trump imposed a 25% tariff on imported cars and parts.
Insiders stated that Tesla has increased its parts procurement in North America over the past two years, which helps reduce tariff risks for the E41.
According to previous media reports, Tesla recently suspended its plan to ship parts for the Cybercab and Semi trucks from China to the US due to tariff issues.