Group 1: Electric Vehicle Market Trends - The proportion of consumers considering purchasing Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) has decreased to 41%, down 5 percentage points year-over-year, while those considering Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) is at 36%, also down 5 percentage points [1] - UBS forecasts a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17% for global electric vehicle sales from 2024 to 2027, revised down from 22%, primarily due to a slowdown in the U.S. market [1] - The projected global electric vehicle penetration rate is 25% by 2025 and 41% by 2030, down from previous estimates of 26% and 49% respectively [1] Group 2: Regional Insights and Consumer Concerns - In China, domestic brands are gaining popularity in the high-end market, with BYD stabilizing at a high level and being the only Chinese brand rapidly gaining traction in export markets [2] - Tesla is facing significant challenges in Europe and losing market share in China to local brands, with fewer consumers viewing it as a technology leader [2] - The main consumer concerns regarding BEVs are inadequate charging infrastructure and limited range, rather than price [1] Group 3: OEM Competitive Positioning - UBS identifies the most competitive OEMs as those with strong BEV product capabilities, strategic flexibility, and limited investment needs in Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles while maintaining profitability [2] - BMW is noted for its forward-looking electric transformation, with the Neue Klasse platform set to launch in late 2025 [3] - BYD is recognized for its complete vertical integration and significant cost advantages, being the only Chinese OEM to achieve initial success in global expansion [3] Group 4: OEM Strategic Adjustments - Many OEMs are responding to the slowdown in BEV sales outside China by adjusting product plans and focusing on flexibility to address regional trends and rising trade barriers [2] - Toyota, despite a slower pace in electric vehicle development, maintains strong ICE profitability to support electric investments [3] - Companies like Porsche, Volvo, and NIO are seen as being at a disadvantage due to various challenges, including limited product diversity and difficulties in overseas expansion [3]

Group 1 - Foxconn, the world's largest electronics contract manufacturer, is accelerating its entry into the electric vehicle (EV) industry by partnering with Mitsubishi Motors to develop an EV targeted at the Australian and New Zealand markets, set to launch in the second half of 2026 [1] - This collaboration marks a significant breakthrough for Foxconn, which has been pursuing the EV market since 2019, and represents a pivotal shift in the automotive industry towards external manufacturing models [1][2] - Mitsubishi, primarily focused on plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), is facing challenges in keeping pace with the rapidly evolving EV market, making this partnership crucial for its transition [2] Group 2 - Mitsubishi's strengths lie in its robust hybrid vehicle lineup and strong presence in Southeast Asia, but it needs to enhance its electric vehicle offerings to compete effectively [2] - Foxconn's EV business is part of its long-term growth strategy to reduce reliance on iPhone assembly, especially in light of recent disruptions caused by changes in U.S. tariff policies [2] - Foxconn's subsidiary, Hon Hai Advanced, plans to accelerate EV development by utilizing standardized platforms and components, aiming for a win-win situation that benefits both Mitsubishi and Foxconn [2] Group 3 - Previously, Foxconn proposed acquiring Nissan shares as a means to enter the automotive market, but this plan did not progress; interestingly, Nissan is Mitsubishi's second-largest shareholder, providing Foxconn with another avenue to develop automotive business relationships [3]