Tesla Reduces Electric Car Production in China Amid Sluggish Sales
Tesla Inc. has made the decision to reduce electric car production at its plant in China, according to sources familiar with the matter. This move comes as the company faces challenges with slow growth in new-energy vehicle sales and fierce competition in the world’s largest automobile market.
- Production of the Model Y SUV and Model 3 sedan has been cut back
- Employees instructed to work five days a week instead of 6 1/2
- Output trims began earlier this month
The US automaker’s Shanghai facility has implemented these changes, affecting both the Model Y sport utility vehicle and the Model 3 sedan. Employees have been instructed to work five days a week instead of the usual 6 1/2 days. The production lines continue to operate on two daily 11.5-hour shifts, with the modifications taking effect earlier this month. Staff members have not received a clear timeline on when production will resume normal levels.
While overall sales of passenger vehicles in China saw a 17% increase in the first two months of 2024 compared to the previous year, Tesla experienced a year-on-year decrease in shipments. This decline comes amidst heightened competition in the Chinese market, with both local and international electric vehicle manufacturers vying for market share.
Tesla faces stiff competition from homegrown rival BYD Co. and other EV manufacturers producing more affordable and technologically advanced vehicles. The company primarily relies on its Model 3 sedan and Model Y SUV, both of which were introduced before 2020, to compete in the Chinese market.
Demand for electric cars is slowing not only in China but also in other major regions like the US and Europe. Tesla exports tens of thousands of vehicles to Asia and Europe each month, in addition to catering to domestic consumption from its Shanghai factory.
Challenges and Adjustments
Some of the production lines at Tesla’s Shanghai plant, including the battery workshops, have experienced longer suspensions. Staff and suppliers have been advised to prepare for extended production limitations through April, coinciding with China’s Tomb Sweeping Day holiday, traditionally a period of reduced consumption.
In the first two months of 2024, Tesla delivered 131,812 vehicles in China, marking a 6% decrease from the same period last year. Despite price reductions implemented since the beginning of the year, only 53% of shipments were allocated to the local market.
Tesla has been offering incentives to local buyers in an effort to boost sales, following an announcement of price increases for its Model Y cars. These measures aim to stimulate demand as electric car sales in China face a slowdown after the government phased out subsidies at the end of 2022.
According to the China Passenger Car Association, shipments of new-energy vehicles are projected to increase by 25% to 11 million units in 2024. While the sector continues to expand, this growth rate represents a slowdown compared to previous years.
Conclusion
Tesla’s decision to reduce electric car production in China reflects the challenges facing the company in a competitive and evolving market. As demand for electric vehicles shifts and competition intensifies, Tesla is adjusting its strategies to navigate these changing dynamics and maintain its position in the global automotive industry.
For more information on this topic, visit Fortune.
