Core Viewpoint - Ferrari has delayed the launch of its second all-electric vehicle from 2026 to at least 2028 due to insufficient demand for high-performance luxury electric cars, raising concerns about the future of ultra-luxury brands' transition to electric vehicles [2][4]. Group 1: Ferrari's Electric Vehicle Strategy - Since 2019, Ferrari has entered the hybrid vehicle market, with hybrids expected to account for half of its total sales by 2024 [3]. - The first all-electric model was initially set to debut in 2026, but the timeline has been adjusted, with the global premiere now scheduled for spring 2026 and first deliveries expected in October 2026 [3][4]. - The second all-electric model, seen as a pivotal point in Ferrari's electric strategy, was originally planned for late 2026 but is now anticipated to launch no earlier than 2028 [4]. Group 2: Market Challenges for Ultra-Luxury Brands - The demand for high-performance electric vehicles is currently perceived as "zero," with internal targets for sales of 5,000 to 6,000 units over five years deemed unsustainable due to lack of customer interest [4]. - The unique sound of internal combustion engines is a significant appeal for Ferrari's core clientele, and the absence of this feature in electric vehicles may diminish their attractiveness [4][6]. - Other luxury brands, such as Lamborghini and Aston Martin, are also facing similar challenges, with several delaying their electric vehicle launches due to insufficient consumer interest [7][10]. Group 3: Industry Trends and Responses - Many ultra-luxury brands are postponing or scaling back their electric ambitions, with Lamborghini pushing its first all-electric model from 2028 to 2029 [7]. - Bentley has delayed its first all-electric vehicle from 2025 to 2026 and extended its timeline for full electrification from 2030 to 2035 [9]. - Maserati has canceled plans for an electric version of its MC20 model due to anticipated low demand, indicating a preference among its customers for high-performance gasoline engines [10][11].

Core Viewpoint - The ultra-luxury car market in China is experiencing a significant downturn, with a 53% year-on-year drop in sales of vehicles priced over one million yuan in Q1 2025, indicating a faster contraction than the overall industry [1] Group 1: Market Performance - In Q1 2025, sales of million-level luxury cars fell to 21,000 units, a stark contrast to the stable annual sales of around 200,000 units from 2021 to 2023 [1][2] - Lotus Technology reported a 46% decline in revenue year-on-year, but also showed signs of recovery with a 56% reduction in operating losses and an increase in gross margin from 3% in 2024 to 12% in Q1 2025 [2][4] Group 2: Financial Metrics - Lotus's operating loss decreased from $233 million in the previous year to $103 million, while adjusted EBITDA improved from -$200 million to -$136 million, reflecting a 33% reduction [4] - The gross margin increased from 7% to 12% in Q1 2025, indicating a strong recovery despite still being lower than the previous year [5][6] Group 3: Market Strategy - Lotus is focusing on cost control and efficiency improvements, with a continuous decline in operating expenses over six quarters [4] - The company is also diversifying its market presence, achieving a balanced distribution of sales across Europe, China, and North America, each accounting for 32% of total sales [8] Group 4: Future Outlook - The ultra-luxury car market in China is expected to have a long-term demand ceiling, despite current challenges, as the economic level continues to rise [11] - Lotus aims to leverage its historical brand value and technological advancements to differentiate itself in a competitive market, focusing on electric and hybrid models [13][14]

Group 1 - Ferrari aims to revitalize its sales in the Chinese market with the launch of its first all-electric supercar, Elettrica, expected in October [1][3] - The Elettrica will be subject to a 30% composite tax rate in China, significantly lower than the nearly fourfold tax burden on current 12-cylinder models, which includes import, consumption, and value-added taxes [3][6] - Ferrari's CEO, Benedetto Vigna, indicated that a new model tailored for the Greater China market will be introduced this year, which is expected to improve market conditions [3][6] Group 2 - Since 2022, Ferrari's sales in China have stagnated, with a 25% decline in shipments in Q1, reaching a four-year low, largely due to competition from local high-end manufacturers [6] - Despite the challenges, Ferrari's reliance on the Chinese market is relatively low, with only about 10% of total shipments directed to China, partly due to high import duties on vehicles with engine displacements over 4L [6] - The company is considering revising its export limitations to China as it enters the electric vehicle market, which could enhance its competitiveness due to the exemption of consumption tax on electric vehicles in China [6][8] Group 3 - The Elettrica will be produced in a dedicated electric vehicle factory known as "E-Building," and it will be the electric version of Ferrari's first SUV, Purosangue [8] - Ferrari is exploring unique sound characteristics for its electric vehicles, with specific sounds already patented, ensuring that each model will have its distinct auditory identity [8]

Group 1 - The acceptance of plug-in hybrid models among Bentley customers is increasing, while the acceptance of pure electric models remains unclear. Bentley plans to launch its first pure electric model within two years [1][7]. - Bentley's performance in the global and Chinese markets is facing challenges, with 2024 being a transitional year. The introduction of the new Continental GT with a high-performance hybrid system is expected to meet performance expectations in Q1 2025. However, overall market prospects are uncertain due to changes in U.S. tariffs, which will impact Bentley's business in the U.S. and affect Chinese customers [4][5]. - The ultra-luxury car market in China is contracting, but Bentley's market share in this segment is growing positively. The company will work closely with its Chinese team to carefully manage supply and demand [5]. Group 2 - Bentley has extended the lifecycle of its plug-in hybrid models from 2030 to 2035 due to positive market feedback regarding the transition from the W12 engine to the V8 hybrid system [6]. - The company is focused on ensuring that its upcoming pure electric model features suitable technology for higher charging efficiency and range, marking it as a completely new Bentley model rather than an electrified version of existing models [7]. - While the trend of smart technology in vehicles is prominent, Bentley customers prioritize craftsmanship and classic design elements when choosing their vehicles. The company remains committed to technological innovation and is actively monitoring industry developments to incorporate suitable technologies into its latest models [8].