Bei Jing Shang Bao·2025-11-04 15:20Core Viewpoint - The end of the federal electric vehicle (EV) tax credit, which provided up to $7,500, has led to a significant drop in EV sales in October, prompting manufacturers to adjust production plans and express concerns about future demand [1][5][6]. Sales Performance - Ford reported a 25% year-over-year decline in October EV sales, with specific models like the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning seeing drops of 12% and 17% respectively [3]. - Kia and Hyundai experienced even steeper declines, with sales falling between 52% and 71% year-over-year, and Hyundai's Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 9 models seeing month-over-month drops of 80% and 71% [3]. - Prior to the subsidy expiration, there was a surge in EV sales, with third-quarter sales reaching a record high of 438,487 units, a 40.7% increase from the previous quarter [6]. Market Dynamics - The expiration of the tax credit is expected to lead to a "cooling period" in the EV market, with analysts predicting a drop in market share from 10%-12% in September to around 5% [6][7]. - The market is shifting from being driven by subsidies to being influenced by genuine consumer interest in EVs [3]. Rental Market Impact - The end of the subsidy has also affected the rental market, with companies raising leasing prices for all models, such as Tesla's Model Y, which saw monthly lease rates increase from $529 to approximately $599 [4]. Production Adjustments - In response to anticipated sales declines, companies like General Motors are implementing production cuts and temporary layoffs, affecting around 360 employees at their Factory Zero [9]. - The U.S. government has also reduced incentives for EV production and weakened regulatory frameworks, which may hinder the transition to electric vehicles [8]. Competitive Landscape - The changes in policy and market dynamics may put U.S. automakers at a disadvantage compared to international competitors, particularly in light of new regulations regarding battery components and critical minerals [9]. - Analysts express concern that the lack of government support could severely impact the ability of U.S. manufacturers to compete with China's EV industry [10].