Core Insights - The performance of legacy auto companies, particularly General Motors (GM), in Q3 2025 has exceeded investor expectations, with GM's stock rising 44% after beating earnings estimates and raising guidance for the full year [3][4][8] - Despite a significant decline in electric vehicle (EV) adoption, GM continues to grow its market share in internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid vehicles, demonstrating resilience in a challenging market [5][12] Company Performance - GM's stock remains undervalued with strong upside potential, driven by its ability to generate profits across different market conditions [4][10] - In Q3 2025, GM achieved a 41% market share in full-size pickups and 60% in full-size SUVs, contributing to a total U.S. market share increase from 14.4% in 2021 to 17.2% in the TTM ended Q3 2025 [7][8] - GM's total U.S. vehicle deliveries reached 710,000 in Q3 2025, marking an 8% year-over-year increase [8] EV Market Dynamics - The EV market has seen a slowdown, with GM managing to grow its EV market share despite scaling back production; GM holds the 2 position in the U.S. EV market [12][13] - Year-to-date EV unit sales for GM's brands (Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac) grew significantly, with Chevrolet being the 2 U.S. EV brand [14][15] Financial Health - GM has generated $45 billion in free cash flow from 2014 through Q3 2025, with $7.9 billion in free cash flow over the TTM [22][26] - The company has reinstated and increased its dividend, currently providing a yield of 0.9%, and has repurchased $24.2 billion in shares since 2022 [24][25] Challenges and Outlook - GM recorded a $1.6 billion charge related to EV operations in Q3 2025, but management expects to reduce these losses in 2026 and beyond [29] - Tariffs continue to impact profitability, although GM is taking steps to mitigate these effects by expanding U.S. production [30][31] Valuation Perspective - GM's current stock price implies a pessimistic outlook, expecting a 40% decline in NOPAT, which contrasts with the company's historical growth rates [33][34] - Scenarios suggest that GM's stock could rise over 40% even with a decline in profits, indicating potential for significant upside if the company performs in line with historical trends [36][38]
General Motors Is All Gassed Up For Profit Growth