Ford on Tuesday posted its largest quarterly loss since 2008 amid losses in the automaker's electric vehicle (EV) division, as well as the impact of tariffs and a fire that impacted an aluminum supplier. The Detroit automaker reported a fourth quarter net loss of $11.1 billion after previously disclosing large writedowns to its EV programs, which the company is realigning in response to lower-than-expected consumer demand and changing federal subsidies."I think the customer has spoken," Ford CEO Jim Farley ...

Core Insights - A potential deal may see Ford acquiring batteries from a Chinese carmaker for its factories located outside the U.S. [1] Company Summary - Ford is exploring the possibility of purchasing batteries from a Chinese manufacturer to support its production facilities outside the United States [1]

Core Viewpoint - Ford is taking a significant $19.5 billion writedown and discontinuing several electric vehicle (EV) models, reflecting the auto industry's retreat from battery-powered vehicles due to changing policies and declining demand for EVs [1][5]. Group 1: Company Actions - Ford will cease production of the F-150 Lightning in its electric form and will instead focus on an extended-range electric model, a hybrid called Erev [2]. - The company is also canceling the next-generation electric truck, T3, and planned electric commercial vans [2]. - Ford plans to pivot towards gas and hybrid models, expecting its global mix of hybrids, extended-range EVs, and pure EVs to reach 50% by 2030, up from 17% today [3]. Group 2: Financial Implications - The $19.5 billion writedown will be spread out, primarily occurring in the fourth quarter and continuing through 2027, with $8.5 billion related to canceled EV models, $6 billion tied to a dissolved battery joint venture with SK On, and $5 billion for "program-related expenses" [4]. - Sales of the F-150 Lightning have decreased by 10% year-over-year, with only 25,583 units sold through November [8]. Group 3: Market Context - US sales of electric vehicles fell approximately 40% in November, following the expiration of a $7,500 consumer tax credit, which had been in place for over 15 years [6]. - The shift in Ford's strategy reflects a broader trend in the auto industry, as companies reassess their investments in EVs amid waning demand and changing regulatory environments [5][7]. Group 4: Future Plans - Ford's future EV lineup will focus on more affordable models, with the first model from a specialized team in California expected to be priced around $30,000 and available in 2027 [9].

Core Insights - New car prices are at an all-time high, with average monthly payments reaching $766 and average amounts financed at $43,218, driving consumers towards the used car market [1][2] - Companies like Carvana, Autoation, and CarMax are benefiting from this trend, with stock prices increasing significantly [2] - Valvalene, which operates 2,300 car servicing stores, is positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for maintenance services as consumers hold onto their older vehicles longer [2][3] Company Performance - Valvalene's CEO noted that the average age of vehicles in the U.S. has increased to nearly 13 years, leading to higher maintenance needs and revenue opportunities for the company [4] - The company has been experiencing a steady influx of customers seeking maintenance for their older vehicles, which aligns with the trend of consumers opting for used cars over new ones [3][4] - Valvalene's growth in the electric vehicle (EV) segment has slowed since the removal of EV subsidies, with EV penetration in the car park currently below 2% [6][7] Market Dynamics - The shift towards maintaining older vehicles rather than purchasing new ones is expected to continue, as consumers find it more economical to keep their current cars [5] - Valvalene's hybrid business is performing well, with penetration rates comparable to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles [8] - The company aims to improve its market perception and investor understanding following a significant acquisition and a focus on clear financial commitments for growth [12][10] Community Engagement - Valvalene has a strong commitment to community involvement, having raised over $1.8 million for the Children's Miracle Network and engaging in various charitable activities [15][16]

Core Insights - Electric vehicles (EVs) depreciate significantly faster than gas-powered cars, with an average depreciation of 58.8% over five years compared to 45.6% for all vehicles [1][4] - The Honda Prologue, an electric SUV, has a projected depreciation of 49% after three years, with a resale value of approximately $29,701 [5][6] - The depreciation rates for various EV models vary, with the Jaguar I-PACE experiencing the highest average depreciation rate at 72.2% [5] Depreciation Factors - Rapid technological advancements in EVs, particularly in battery technology, contribute to faster depreciation as older models become outdated [6] - Concerns regarding battery life may also affect resale values, despite federal warranties of eight years or 100,000 miles for EVs [6] Financial Implications - The financial burden of car loans can lead to significant debt, as illustrated by a case where a couple owes $110,000 in car debt alone, alongside $62,000 in credit card debt [3][10] - Financial advisors recommend that monthly car expenses should not exceed 10% of monthly income to avoid becoming "car poor" [7][8] Recommendations for EV Buyers - Potential EV buyers should explore local or state incentives, as well as rebates from automakers, to mitigate costs [9] - Consideration of home charging installation costs and the availability of charging stations is crucial for prospective EV owners [10]

Porsche is launching the most powerful 911 factory model to date, leaning on its combustion-engine clout to create a hybrid version of the Turbo S https://t.co/I2dHlYcDpq ...