The Dispatch: Week 13
BYD overtakes Tesla in global EV sales. Rivian spins off e-bikes. Subaru blends more tech with its nature appeal. Sibros and Webbing serving up new IoT offerings.
HAPPY FRIDAY!
As we wrap up another week in the world of Software-Defined Vehicles, we’d like to take a moment to wish a joyful Eid al-Fitr to all who are celebrating! With celebrations set to begin this weekend, may it be filled with happiness, connection, and new beginnings.
Now, let’s dive into this week’s biggest SDV stories! 🚗💡
🚀 Top Story
BYD Surpasses Tesla in Global EV Sales, Hits $100B Revenue Milestone
Chinese automaker BYD has officially overtaken Tesla in global EV sales, marking a significant shift in the competitive landscape. With a 29% revenue increase in 2024, BYD has now crossed the $100 billion revenue mark, fueled by its stronghold in China and aggressive expansion into Europe and Latin America. (Read more)
BYD’s success is largely driven by its dominance in the affordable EV segment, allowing it to capture market share beyond premium buyers. The company’s expertise in battery technology and vertical integration strategy have given it a cost advantage over competitors, enabling rapid production scaling. Meanwhile, Tesla is facing slowing global demand and price cuts to stay competitive.
Our Take 🧐 BYD’s rapid growth is a wake-up call for Tesla and legacy automakers. With its strong pricing strategy and expanding global footprint, the EV race is no longer just about premium cars—it’s about affordability and scale. We also know, however, that BYD and all other automakers will face new challenges in the wake of new auto tariffs for selling into the US market..stay tuned on that one.
BYD stock trading in Hong Kong is up nearly 10% over the last 30 days:
🌟 Key Industry Moves
👉 Subaru Expands Software Collaboration with FPT
Subaru is strengthening its software-defined vehicle strategy by extending its partnership with FPT, a global digital transformation firm. (Read more)
The new two-year corporate-level agreement focuses on AI-driven mobility solutions, vehicle connectivity, and next-gen infotainment systems. Subaru, traditionally known for its mechanical engineering excellence and brand affinity with nature, is now making software a priority to stay competitive in an increasingly digital automotive landscape.
For a brand deeply connected to nature 🌳, the practical, and family-oriented, Subaru is embracing the digital era by incorporating advanced technologies that enhance safety, connectivity, and the driving experience. Their commitment to software and innovation sets Subaru apart as a forward-thinking leader in the automotive industry, while also strengthening the loyalty of its passionate customer base.
👉 Tesla Rebrands ‘FSD’ in China Amid Regulatory Scrutiny
Tesla has dropped the “Full Self-Driving” (FSD) name from its driver-assist technology in China, renaming it “Autonomous Assisted Driving” following regulatory pressure. (Read more)
China’s regulators have been cracking down on misleading marketing claims around autonomous capabilities, ensuring clear distinctions between advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and full autonomy. This could set a precedent for global rebranding strategies, especially as Europe and the U.S. move toward stricter ADAS regulations.
Tesla’s move in China signals a broader shift in the self-driving narrative. As governments worldwide scrutinize autonomous claims, other automakers may need to reassess their SDV branding and compliance strategies.
👉 Rivian Spins Off Micromobility Unit Into New Startup ‘Also, Inc.’
Rivian is restructuring its business by spinning off its micromobility division into a separate startup called Also, Inc., which will focus on e-bikes and urban mobility solutions. (Read more)
The decision comes as Rivian doubles down on its core truck and SUV business while acknowledging that urban mobility requires a different strategic approach. The move could position Also, Inc. as an independent player in the growing micromobility sector, which is seeing increased demand in dense urban areas.
With automakers exploring urban-friendly EVs and micromobility solutions, could Rivian's strategic spin-off allow for more focused development? Expect to see more automakers reevaluate their role in the growing urban mobility space.
📈 Market & Regulation Watch
👉 Tesla Eyes Saudi Market Amid Sales Slump
Tesla is exploring market entry into 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia, seeking to revitalize sales amid increased global competition. (Read more)
Tesla however will face formidable homegrown competition from Ceer Motors, Saudi Arabia’s first national EV brand, launched in 2022 with backing from the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) who is positioning itself as a key player in the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative. Ceer Motors is aiming to develop and manufacture Saudi-designed, locally produced EVs with advanced smart technology. With strong government support and incentives for domestic EV production, Tesla may encounter regulatory and market-entry challenges, making its expansion into the kingdom more complex than in other regions.
Saudi Arabia is a lucrative but competitive market, and Tesla isn’t walking into a blue ocean here. Ceer’s government-backed presence and focus on local manufacturing could give it a home-field advantage, making Tesla’s strategy in the region a crucial test of its global flexibility.
👉 Renault’s EV Unit Ampere Appoints New CEO
Renault’s electric vehicle division, Ampere, has appointed Josep Maria Recasens as CEO, effective April 1, 2025. Recasens, previously Renault’s Chief Operations Officer, will take over from Luca de Meo. (Read more)
Ampere has ambitious goals, targeting €10 billion in revenue by 2025 and ramping up European EV production. Recasens will lead the charge in scaling operations and improving profitability, as Renault positions Ampere to compete with Tesla and emerging Chinese EV makers. The leadership shift is part of a broader strategy to solidify Ampere’s role in the European EV market.
🛠️ Tech & Innovation Spotlight
👉 Sibros and Webbing Forge Strategic Partnership for IoT Connectivity
Sibros and Webbing have announced a new partnership to enhance connected vehicle solutions, integrating data-driven telematics and software update capabilities. (Read more)
With real-time diagnostics, remote software updates, and improved connectivity, this collaboration aims to streamline SDV development while enabling seamless fleet management solutions for OEMs.
Software and connectivity partnerships like this are essential as automakers push for fully connected, software-driven vehicles. Expect more strategic alliances to emerge as the industry standardizes SDV architectures.
🌟 That’s a Wrap!
That’s all for this week’s Dispatch! What trends are on your radar? Reply and let us know, or email us at editor@sdvinsider.com.
See you next week!
🚗 SDV Insider Staff