John's Stuff - Personal Log 1313

March 22, 2025 - March 26, 2025

Last Updated: Weds. 6/25/2025

3-26-2025
DC for PHEV? It's inspiring to read this on the big Prius forum: "Imagine charging your OEM HV battery in just 16 minutes! I'm curious - wouldn't it be amazing to have DC fast charging available for your vehicle? Many of us might already live near a DC fast charger..." That's a good example of critical thinking coming from a venue favoring hybrids. Knowing there's much potential for PHEV still, I was delighted to jump into that discussion: Prius PHV in Japan has supported DC in the past. That's why the port door on Prime is so large. It takes about 20 minutes to go from 0 to 80%. With upcoming new battery chemistry and increased capacity, there has been consideration of the idea to support DC. The big assist in that regard is longer needing a second port to support the ability. Naturally, speed would be limited. But the theoretical future ability to pull DC directly from a large & affordable Na-Ion home battery-bank is an interesting step forward most people haven't ever thought of. That would certainly be an intriguing paradigm shift.

3-25-2025
Propaganda, mission. There are a few who will stick with the discussion, staying on topic and trying to be constructive. This was one such example: "Mostly I'm just disappointed in both Toyota and Honda for being so very slow to the full EV market. I've owned and loved vehicles from both brands and would happily have bought an EV from either of them. But in 2016 (when I ordered my 3) and 2020, they had nothing to offer. So, I went with Tesla." No one wants to be told what they have grown familiar with, treating what had been a new technology as now an everyday thing, is still many years away from being viable for the masses. Enthusiasts are enthusiastic... very excited to learn and willing to try. They see risk as a nuisance, rather than an intimidating & costly barrier. It's why "know your audience" is so important. You don't want to burn bridges, cutting off those fighting you now, because they will later become an ally. They just don't recognize the necessity & value of the slow & subtle approach. I try to remind them: That's totally understandable, but doesn't work when it comes to the Toyota mission. They don't cater to enthusiasts. Their focus is mainstream consumers, which translates to an unwillingness to try to sell loss-leaders in high-volume. We now see that hasn't worked for Ford or VW or GM. It simply made no sense following them. Toyota already learned not do that from their hybrids.

3-25-2025 Propaganda, long-term. If the discussion goes on long enough, some will lose track of what they themselves were arguing. The best way to deal with that is by providing a reminder of long-term goals. That perspective can sometimes get them to refocus on the issues at hand. This was a reply to such a situation:

RAV4 EV is what I was responding about. The potential for an Osborne Effect is a very big problem. If it were that compelling of a product, enough to sour sales of the non-BEV models, not having capacity to supply a massive surge in demand would be detrimental.

Sad reality is we knew the political situation regarding imports & plug-ins would make the market extremely volatile anyway. Watching Tesla struggle to be competitive with BYD (outdated & expensive models) even before the Elon backlash was an additional red flag, a clear indication of to come.

The only thing we really could nail down was how painfully slow NACS rollout would be. It all added up to having time to focus on phasing out ICE and expanding BEV choice, prior to any ramp up for high-volume production.
It's all rather disenchanting from an enthusiast perspective. From someone with a long-time economic outlook, the situation is encouraging. It won't be easy in the meantime though. That's why VW, GM and Ford are all looking into more hybrid offerings. Being able to leverage PHEV to accelerate ICE phaseout isn't the desired path to BEV, but that's clearly becoming a necessity with so many barriers to overcome still.

3-24-2025
Propaganda, impatience. Gotta like the completely oblivious-to-history nature of some posts: "I'm not knocking Toyotas moves toward EV. Any progress is progress, but if you mean it, release things that are appealing to your customers. You know Rav-4 and Camry sell. Where's their EV versions?" We heard literally the same thing with hybrids, about Prius. Back then, it came down to impatience. From day 1, enthusiasts wanted the technology perfected and configured exactly the way mainstream consumers would expect. They show no patience whatsoever for testing the market, finding out what will truly fulfill goals. That's why they are so hard on Toyota. They have no clue what it took to refine hybrid technology to the point where it could completely eliminate ICE models. Their demands are quite unrealistic. That's why the struggles we've seen in the past from GM, Ford and VW have all provided great examples of what not to do. The challenge for legacy automakers is more complex than they'll ever comes to terms with. I provide insight as to why anyway: Selling loss-leaders hasn't worked. Each automaker attempting that, including Ford, has failed to achieve profitable high-volume sales. That's how the "behind" narrative came about. Enthusiasts grew impatient with Toyota following their own formula to success... targeting gen-2 for that instead. It worked exceptionally well for gen-2 Prius and looks very likely to work well for gen-2 bZ4X too (which we'll get to know as the BEV model of RAV4).

3-24-2025
Propaganda, history. Gotta like when there is a recognition of propaganda failing. When that happens, you'll get a confirmation by an attempt to rewrite history like this: "Toyota did themselves no favors in this area. They hung onto the hydrogen plan for too long. Their first BEV came out what, last year?" Spinning the situation as too late, giving it a sense of hopelessness really doesn't help. That's because it doesn't reach the audience that matters. Ordinary shoppers won't be swayed by keyboard warrior victories. Most online activity fails to make much of an impression, especially compared to a real-world encounter. That's why we have EV events. You capture the attention of people wanting to learn more, like tidbits of history. Sharing them online usually falls on deaf ears. I try regardless. You never know who will read a reply or when: Most people don't pay attention to detail or are aware of history. Toyota's first full EV drive (up to 135 km/h, 84 mph) complete with heat-pump has been available since 2012, delivered in Prius Prime. That has been evolving ever since. In fact, 3 other PHEV have adopted it as well as their BEV. That's why UX300e in Europe back in 2021, followed by bZ4X worldwide in 2023, already had a well refined EV drive. With regard to hydrogen, there will still be a large commercial & industrial market for it. So, that shared tech will continue on.

3-24-2025
Propaganda, follow. Up until recently, calling out Toyota's approach as flawed was by providing the example of Tesla... the BEV automaker who could do no wrong. Ugh. It's much easier to see now that Tesla's conquest sales weren't evolving into mainstream appeal. That reality of being trapped in a niche is being difficult to deny. Even with the Model Y refresh, it's clearly too late. More compelling choices are drawing attention. That's how this shift to Ford came about: "If Toyota wanted to sell EVs, they'd follow in Ford's footsteps and this lineups key member would be RAV-4 EV. Until that's on sale this is all just PR." I found that quite telling. It completely disregarded Ford's own struggle with that advice. So, I asked: What steps now? Ford backed off much of their dealer push. Meanwhile we see Toyota phasing out ICE models, making it very clear their investment in vehicles with battery-packs. With Prius, RAV4, Crown and C-HR available as PHEV models, it's easy to see expectations grow for increased volume & variety complementing their BEV updates and new models. It's not PR or footsteps to follow; it's a subtle means of setting the stage for easier transition... a necessity when dealing with timid & resistant customers.

3-24-2025
Propaganda, electrified. What makes BEV purists (those who want battery-only vehicles to be sold from this point on) is the use of "electrified" in any marketing. It's a term that calls attention to a vehicle taking advantage of motor & battery for propulsion. Whether or not there is also a gas-engine shouldn't matter, since the goal is to consume electricity. Even if that electricity is derived from gas, the benefit of cleaner emissions and improved efficiency still applies. That's a clear gain over ICE vehicles. That fact that some hybrids also offer a plug doesn't enter the discussion. They won't allow it... hence their fight for purity. If even a drop of gas is ever consumed, it's bad... period. Ugh. I like to point out the bigger picture: With regard to "electrified", that's is Toyota friendly reminder that other legacy automakers have mostly just been providing token efforts... not actual changes to their status quo. Use of HEV and PHEV and BEV badges on their vehicles makes it very clear the fleet is moving beyond ICE, using something with a battery. In short, look up the history of "halo" vehicles.

3-24-2025
Propaganda, shift. I can see discussion heating up. It's difficult to tell if anything constructive will become of it. Keyboard warriors thrive on propaganda targeting Toyota. They desperately need a feel-good topic as a distraction from their current woes too. For example, GM's production is in Mexico. That threat of what 25% tariffs will do to anticipated sales is frightening... especially when you see potential that provides for Toyota. That new battery production in North Carolina is exactly what is needed to make tariff avoidance realistic, giving Toyota an advantage. Unfortunately, there are some who fear that. It makes phasing out more ICE models a natural progression, easy to get those who tend to resist change on board. This is why we see a shift of messaging. It's progress Toyota will achieve that others will continue to struggle with. I stated that as: Undermining is not a finite step. When spinning the situation as vaporware fails, they shift efforts to misrepresent the vehicle rather than the automaker. You end up with a flurry of cherry-picked & outdated reports that can very effectively paint a false picture of what is now available.

3-24-2025 Propaganda, article. This is the title of the article which stirred new trouble: "Goodbye to electric cars - Toyota passes sentence and hydrogen will be the future of the automotive industry." Less than 24 hours following that reveal of Toyota's plans for 6 choices of BEV in Europe by 2026 was clearly a sign of panic. Those hoping to undermine & impede had to rush out their counter-messaging. That's really sad, but no surprise. Retaining control of the narrative is key. Supposedly, Toyota is dead set against plug-in vehicles. Reality is that Toyota follows an evolutionary path, rather than revolutionary. That has proven a successful means of reaching those intimidated about change. Taking the steps from hybrid, to plug-in hybrid, to battery-only requires patience though, something enthusiast lack. Being a BEV purist doesn't work when you face facts. We're not going to see that support needed for those living in apartments & condos for a very long time still. It simply wasn't realistic prior to the election of our dictator... which is why the need for propaganda came up in the first place. Now, it will only get worse. Ugh.

3-24-2025
Propaganda, efforts. Exactly as anticipated, Toyota makes an announcement that negates the "behind" narrative, antagonists scramble to reinforce their antithesis. Can't let people find out they've been using Toyota as a distraction. Ugh. Anywho I was quite annoyed. Propaganda articles to misrepresent Toyota are ramping up again. This time, they are promoting hydrogen to give the impression BEV efforts are being abandoned. That's coming about as a result of Toyota doing the opposite, expanding their BEV efforts. Here's recent information confirming that yesterday, from Piotr Pawlak, President at Toyota Norway and Head of BEV Readiness at Toyota Northern Europe:

BEV momentum continues! During the last Kenshiki forum we confirmed that we will continue to grow our BEV range and deliver on its ambition to reveal 6 new BEV models by the end of 2026.

Following the example set by the new Urban Cruiser and Toyota C-HR+, these will adopt a traditional naming strategy to make them familiar and instantly recognizable to customers.

In parallel, Toyota will look to introduce the technology in other vehicle types. An example of its breadth of ambition is the Land Cruiser Se concept, revealed at the Japan Mobility Show in 2023. This explores how a BEV powertrain might be applied to the most iconic model in the Toyota range.
Further into the future, Toyota will roll out next generation BEV technologies, including the advanced batteries previewed in 2023. These include units tailored for low-cost, performance and high performance, together with the launch of the first Toyota solid state batteries with the potential to transform EV performance.

3-23-2025
Tesla Sales, messaging. I continued on: Commentary about character is a waste of everyone's time, regardless of who it is. Stick to facts. We're in trouble and need to do something about it. The question is, what?

CT was a terrible idea from day one, since it didn't target the masses... which supposedly was the goal for Tesla. Each generation was to get us closer to something that would unquestionably compete directly against ICE offerings; instead, Musk took Tesla in the opposite direction by focusing on creating a truck that pickup supporters cannot take seriously and FSD which has nothing whatsoever to do with ICE phaseout.

Refreshing Model Y is par for course, a necessity with a vehicle that long in the tooth. Tesla has neglected the entry-level market to such an extreme, it basically handed over the market. BYD has capitalized on that opportunity and legacy automakers are planning to join in.
As for the claim of "wasn't support for EV's, but only Teslas", that's where understanding audience is vital. Don't overlook intended messaging verses what people hear in their minds. Most still equate Tesla to the entire EV market. It's much like how Prius was representative of the entire hybrid market.

3-22-2025
Tesla Sales, necessity. Loyalty for Tesla has weakened dramatically since last year, back when Elon endorsed Trump. Saying anything constructive was looked upon as an attack. Absence of objectivity prevented constructive discussion. It was absurd. But then again, the entire summer had been that way with so much praise for Cybertruck. Things have fallen apart since then. Tesla's CEO is looked upon as cruel & uncaring, someone completely disconnected with society. And whether or not that makes any difference, sales do. I'm able to post criticism now without pushback. It's like when Volt support collapsed. Troublemakers vanished. They climbed into the last lifeboat and didn't look back. The ship was sinking and there was nothing they could do to help it anymore. I'm quite intrigued how this shakeup with manifest. Eventually, new leadership will take over. That will result in new goals. Heck, it may even result in new branding. Whatever the case, numbers don't lie. We all see the writing on the wall. I was happy to share it too:
145,846 = first full year (2018) of sales for M3 in US
172,700 = first full year (2021) of sales for MY in US
38,965 = first full year (2024) of sales for CT in US

Far fewer CT have been purchased and there is no potential for sales in other markets. For that matter, demand in US is rapidly shrinking... for all Tesla vehicles.
Necessity for a restructuring & repurposing will come. Think of how many other automakers have been forced to find a new CEO. This isn't rocket science.

3-22-2025
Tesla Sales, goals. I kept posting. There's lots of comment to reply to. This was a follow on to expectations for monthly sales: Looking at the bigger picture. Knowing what goals are gives us an idea what will happen with Cybertruck, the topic of this article. Throughout the campaigning, we were told EVs are not the future. That message was reinforced afterward with "Drill, Baby, Drill". Following that came the complete opposite, an push from the White House for EVs. None of us have any idea what to expect next. It's a good bet though that the next move will be half-hearted and short-sighted. At this point, do we even know what Tesla's business mission has morphed to? With so many recalls on CT and absolute terrible timing for the MY refresh, that big picture is a big mystery. For that matter, how will Supercharger rollout of NACS support and V4 proceed?

3-22-2025
Tesla Sales, worry. This post of assurance wasn't convincing: "Don't worry. It's just down because the Model Y refresh." Having long waited for such sentiment, I kept my reply brief hoping for something constructive as refutation: The wave of used Model 3 and Y entering the market will impact refresh sales. What will ordinary consumers see as the draw beyond an obvious cosmetic change? Savvy shoppers will recognize Tesla's reputation for longevity, efficiency and convenience, choosing to buy used instead.

3-26-2025	DC for PHEV? It's inspiring to read this on the big Prius forum: "Imagine charging your OEM HV battery in just 16 minutes! I'm curious - wouldn't it be amazing to have DC fast charging available for your vehicle? Many of us might already live near a DC fast charger..." That's a good example of critical thinking coming from a venue favoring hybrids. Knowing there's much potential for PHEV still, I was delighted to jump into that discussion: Prius PHV in Japan has supported DC in the past. That's why the port door on Prime is so large. It takes about 20 minutes to go from 0 to 80%. With upcoming new battery chemistry and increased capacity, there has been consideration of the idea to support DC. The big assist in that regard is longer needing a second port to support the ability. Naturally, speed would be limited. But the theoretical future ability to pull DC directly from a large & affordable Na-Ion home battery-bank is an interesting step forward most people haven't ever thought of. That would certainly be an intriguing paradigm shift.
3-25-2025	Propaganda, mission. There are a few who will stick with the discussion, staying on topic and trying to be constructive. This was one such example: "Mostly I'm just disappointed in both Toyota and Honda for being so very slow to the full EV market. I've owned and loved vehicles from both brands and would happily have bought an EV from either of them. But in 2016 (when I ordered my 3) and 2020, they had nothing to offer. So, I went with Tesla." No one wants to be told what they have grown familiar with, treating what had been a new technology as now an everyday thing, is still many years away from being viable for the masses. Enthusiasts are enthusiastic... very excited to learn and willing to try. They see risk as a nuisance, rather than an intimidating & costly barrier. It's why "know your audience" is so important. You don't want to burn bridges, cutting off those fighting you now, because they will later become an ally. They just don't recognize the necessity & value of the slow & subtle approach. I try to remind them: That's totally understandable, but doesn't work when it comes to the Toyota mission. They don't cater to enthusiasts. Their focus is mainstream consumers, which translates to an unwillingness to try to sell loss-leaders in high-volume. We now see that hasn't worked for Ford or VW or GM. It simply made no sense following them. Toyota already learned not do that from their hybrids.
3-25-2025	Propaganda, long-term. If the discussion goes on long enough, some will lose track of what they themselves were arguing. The best way to deal with that is by providing a reminder of long-term goals. That perspective can sometimes get them to refocus on the issues at hand. This was a reply to such a situation: RAV4 EV is what I was responding about. The potential for an Osborne Effect is a very big problem. If it were that compelling of a product, enough to sour sales of the non-BEV models, not having capacity to supply a massive surge in demand would be detrimental. Sad reality is we knew the political situation regarding imports & plug-ins would make the market extremely volatile anyway. Watching Tesla struggle to be competitive with BYD (outdated & expensive models) even before the Elon backlash was an additional red flag, a clear indication of to come. The only thing we really could nail down was how painfully slow NACS rollout would be. It all added up to having time to focus on phasing out ICE and expanding BEV choice, prior to any ramp up for high-volume production. It's all rather disenchanting from an enthusiast perspective. From someone with a long-time economic outlook, the situation is encouraging. It won't be easy in the meantime though. That's why VW, GM and Ford are all looking into more hybrid offerings. Being able to leverage PHEV to accelerate ICE phaseout isn't the desired path to BEV, but that's clearly becoming a necessity with so many barriers to overcome still.
3-24-2025	Propaganda, impatience. Gotta like the completely oblivious-to-history nature of some posts: "I'm not knocking Toyotas moves toward EV. Any progress is progress, but if you mean it, release things that are appealing to your customers. You know Rav-4 and Camry sell. Where's their EV versions?" We heard literally the same thing with hybrids, about Prius. Back then, it came down to impatience. From day 1, enthusiasts wanted the technology perfected and configured exactly the way mainstream consumers would expect. They show no patience whatsoever for testing the market, finding out what will truly fulfill goals. That's why they are so hard on Toyota. They have no clue what it took to refine hybrid technology to the point where it could completely eliminate ICE models. Their demands are quite unrealistic. That's why the struggles we've seen in the past from GM, Ford and VW have all provided great examples of what not to do. The challenge for legacy automakers is more complex than they'll ever comes to terms with. I provide insight as to why anyway: Selling loss-leaders hasn't worked. Each automaker attempting that, including Ford, has failed to achieve profitable high-volume sales. That's how the "behind" narrative came about. Enthusiasts grew impatient with Toyota following their own formula to success... targeting gen-2 for that instead. It worked exceptionally well for gen-2 Prius and looks very likely to work well for gen-2 bZ4X too (which we'll get to know as the BEV model of RAV4).
3-24-2025	Propaganda, history. Gotta like when there is a recognition of propaganda failing. When that happens, you'll get a confirmation by an attempt to rewrite history like this: "Toyota did themselves no favors in this area. They hung onto the hydrogen plan for too long. Their first BEV came out what, last year?" Spinning the situation as too late, giving it a sense of hopelessness really doesn't help. That's because it doesn't reach the audience that matters. Ordinary shoppers won't be swayed by keyboard warrior victories. Most online activity fails to make much of an impression, especially compared to a real-world encounter. That's why we have EV events. You capture the attention of people wanting to learn more, like tidbits of history. Sharing them online usually falls on deaf ears. I try regardless. You never know who will read a reply or when: Most people don't pay attention to detail or are aware of history. Toyota's first full EV drive (up to 135 km/h, 84 mph) complete with heat-pump has been available since 2012, delivered in Prius Prime. That has been evolving ever since. In fact, 3 other PHEV have adopted it as well as their BEV. That's why UX300e in Europe back in 2021, followed by bZ4X worldwide in 2023, already had a well refined EV drive. With regard to hydrogen, there will still be a large commercial & industrial market for it. So, that shared tech will continue on.
3-24-2025	Propaganda, follow. Up until recently, calling out Toyota's approach as flawed was by providing the example of Tesla... the BEV automaker who could do no wrong. Ugh. It's much easier to see now that Tesla's conquest sales weren't evolving into mainstream appeal. That reality of being trapped in a niche is being difficult to deny. Even with the Model Y refresh, it's clearly too late. More compelling choices are drawing attention. That's how this shift to Ford came about: "If Toyota wanted to sell EVs, they'd follow in Ford's footsteps and this lineups key member would be RAV-4 EV. Until that's on sale this is all just PR." I found that quite telling. It completely disregarded Ford's own struggle with that advice. So, I asked: What steps now? Ford backed off much of their dealer push. Meanwhile we see Toyota phasing out ICE models, making it very clear their investment in vehicles with battery-packs. With Prius, RAV4, Crown and C-HR available as PHEV models, it's easy to see expectations grow for increased volume & variety complementing their BEV updates and new models. It's not PR or footsteps to follow; it's a subtle means of setting the stage for easier transition... a necessity when dealing with timid & resistant customers.
3-24-2025	Propaganda, electrified. What makes BEV purists (those who want battery-only vehicles to be sold from this point on) is the use of "electrified" in any marketing. It's a term that calls attention to a vehicle taking advantage of motor & battery for propulsion. Whether or not there is also a gas-engine shouldn't matter, since the goal is to consume electricity. Even if that electricity is derived from gas, the benefit of cleaner emissions and improved efficiency still applies. That's a clear gain over ICE vehicles. That fact that some hybrids also offer a plug doesn't enter the discussion. They won't allow it... hence their fight for purity. If even a drop of gas is ever consumed, it's bad... period. Ugh. I like to point out the bigger picture: With regard to "electrified", that's is Toyota friendly reminder that other legacy automakers have mostly just been providing token efforts... not actual changes to their status quo. Use of HEV and PHEV and BEV badges on their vehicles makes it very clear the fleet is moving beyond ICE, using something with a battery. In short, look up the history of "halo" vehicles.
3-24-2025	Propaganda, shift. I can see discussion heating up. It's difficult to tell if anything constructive will become of it. Keyboard warriors thrive on propaganda targeting Toyota. They desperately need a feel-good topic as a distraction from their current woes too. For example, GM's production is in Mexico. That threat of what 25% tariffs will do to anticipated sales is frightening... especially when you see potential that provides for Toyota. That new battery production in North Carolina is exactly what is needed to make tariff avoidance realistic, giving Toyota an advantage. Unfortunately, there are some who fear that. It makes phasing out more ICE models a natural progression, easy to get those who tend to resist change on board. This is why we see a shift of messaging. It's progress Toyota will achieve that others will continue to struggle with. I stated that as: Undermining is not a finite step. When spinning the situation as vaporware fails, they shift efforts to misrepresent the vehicle rather than the automaker. You end up with a flurry of cherry-picked & outdated reports that can very effectively paint a false picture of what is now available.
3-24-2025	Propaganda, article. This is the title of the article which stirred new trouble: "Goodbye to electric cars - Toyota passes sentence and hydrogen will be the future of the automotive industry." Less than 24 hours following that reveal of Toyota's plans for 6 choices of BEV in Europe by 2026 was clearly a sign of panic. Those hoping to undermine & impede had to rush out their counter-messaging. That's really sad, but no surprise. Retaining control of the narrative is key. Supposedly, Toyota is dead set against plug-in vehicles. Reality is that Toyota follows an evolutionary path, rather than revolutionary. That has proven a successful means of reaching those intimidated about change. Taking the steps from hybrid, to plug-in hybrid, to battery-only requires patience though, something enthusiast lack. Being a BEV purist doesn't work when you face facts. We're not going to see that support needed for those living in apartments & condos for a very long time still. It simply wasn't realistic prior to the election of our dictator... which is why the need for propaganda came up in the first place. Now, it will only get worse. Ugh.
3-24-2025	Propaganda, efforts. Exactly as anticipated, Toyota makes an announcement that negates the "behind" narrative, antagonists scramble to reinforce their antithesis. Can't let people find out they've been using Toyota as a distraction. Ugh. Anywho I was quite annoyed. Propaganda articles to misrepresent Toyota are ramping up again. This time, they are promoting hydrogen to give the impression BEV efforts are being abandoned. That's coming about as a result of Toyota doing the opposite, expanding their BEV efforts. Here's recent information confirming that yesterday, from Piotr Pawlak, President at Toyota Norway and Head of BEV Readiness at Toyota Northern Europe: BEV momentum continues! During the last Kenshiki forum we confirmed that we will continue to grow our BEV range and deliver on its ambition to reveal 6 new BEV models by the end of 2026. Following the example set by the new Urban Cruiser and Toyota C-HR+, these will adopt a traditional naming strategy to make them familiar and instantly recognizable to customers. In parallel, Toyota will look to introduce the technology in other vehicle types. An example of its breadth of ambition is the Land Cruiser Se concept, revealed at the Japan Mobility Show in 2023. This explores how a BEV powertrain might be applied to the most iconic model in the Toyota range. Further into the future, Toyota will roll out next generation BEV technologies, including the advanced batteries previewed in 2023. These include units tailored for low-cost, performance and high performance, together with the launch of the first Toyota solid state batteries with the potential to transform EV performance.
3-23-2025	Tesla Sales, messaging. I continued on: Commentary about character is a waste of everyone's time, regardless of who it is. Stick to facts. We're in trouble and need to do something about it. The question is, what? CT was a terrible idea from day one, since it didn't target the masses... which supposedly was the goal for Tesla. Each generation was to get us closer to something that would unquestionably compete directly against ICE offerings; instead, Musk took Tesla in the opposite direction by focusing on creating a truck that pickup supporters cannot take seriously and FSD which has nothing whatsoever to do with ICE phaseout. Refreshing Model Y is par for course, a necessity with a vehicle that long in the tooth. Tesla has neglected the entry-level market to such an extreme, it basically handed over the market. BYD has capitalized on that opportunity and legacy automakers are planning to join in. As for the claim of "wasn't support for EV's, but only Teslas", that's where understanding audience is vital. Don't overlook intended messaging verses what people hear in their minds. Most still equate Tesla to the entire EV market. It's much like how Prius was representative of the entire hybrid market.
3-22-2025	Tesla Sales, necessity. Loyalty for Tesla has weakened dramatically since last year, back when Elon endorsed Trump. Saying anything constructive was looked upon as an attack. Absence of objectivity prevented constructive discussion. It was absurd. But then again, the entire summer had been that way with so much praise for Cybertruck. Things have fallen apart since then. Tesla's CEO is looked upon as cruel & uncaring, someone completely disconnected with society. And whether or not that makes any difference, sales do. I'm able to post criticism now without pushback. It's like when Volt support collapsed. Troublemakers vanished. They climbed into the last lifeboat and didn't look back. The ship was sinking and there was nothing they could do to help it anymore. I'm quite intrigued how this shakeup with manifest. Eventually, new leadership will take over. That will result in new goals. Heck, it may even result in new branding. Whatever the case, numbers don't lie. We all see the writing on the wall. I was happy to share it too: 145,846 = first full year (2018) of sales for M3 in US 172,700 = first full year (2021) of sales for MY in US 38,965 = first full year (2024) of sales for CT in US Far fewer CT have been purchased and there is no potential for sales in other markets. For that matter, demand in US is rapidly shrinking... for all Tesla vehicles. Necessity for a restructuring & repurposing will come. Think of how many other automakers have been forced to find a new CEO. This isn't rocket science.
3-22-2025	Tesla Sales, goals. I kept posting. There's lots of comment to reply to. This was a follow on to expectations for monthly sales: Looking at the bigger picture. Knowing what goals are gives us an idea what will happen with Cybertruck, the topic of this article. Throughout the campaigning, we were told EVs are not the future. That message was reinforced afterward with "Drill, Baby, Drill". Following that came the complete opposite, an push from the White House for EVs. None of us have any idea what to expect next. It's a good bet though that the next move will be half-hearted and short-sighted. At this point, do we even know what Tesla's business mission has morphed to? With so many recalls on CT and absolute terrible timing for the MY refresh, that big picture is a big mystery. For that matter, how will Supercharger rollout of NACS support and V4 proceed?
3-22-2025	Tesla Sales, worry. This post of assurance wasn't convincing: "Don't worry. It's just down because the Model Y refresh." Having long waited for such sentiment, I kept my reply brief hoping for something constructive as refutation: The wave of used Model 3 and Y entering the market will impact refresh sales. What will ordinary consumers see as the draw beyond an obvious cosmetic change? Savvy shoppers will recognize Tesla's reputation for longevity, efficiency and convenience, choosing to buy used instead.