South Korean automaker steering toward electrification
Slate Auto has unveiled a bare‑bones, two‑seat electric pickup starting at $24,950 and a two‑row SUV conversion from $29,950. Preorders have opened with $300 deposits; the base truck uses a 63 kWh LFP battery, rear‑wheel drive, about 205 miles EPA range, and production is scheduled to begin in late 2026.
Australians are increasingly switching to EVs due to rising fuel prices and improved charging infrastructure. Recent consumer shifts include orders for new models like the BYD Sealion, with concerns about range and charging easing. Industry updates highlight new vehicle launches and factory disruptions amid economic pressures.
Toyota plans to expand its electric vehicle lineup in the US, with new models and local production, as demand recovers from a recent decline. Meanwhile, Tesla struggles with falling sales and production-supply gaps amid industry-wide demand slowdown, focusing on autonomous robots and future mobility projects.
Rivian has begun delivering the R2, its more affordable EV, with plans for a $50,000 base version by 2027. CEO RJ Scaringe argues the R2 will broaden choice and avoid copying rivals, while production scales in Illinois and Georgia expand capacity.