The renowned EV manufacturer has reported $7.9 billion in net income on $25.2 billion in revenue for the fourth quarter of 2023. This marks an increase in revenue from $24.3 billion in the previous year. However, Tesla anticipates a significant slowdown in vehicle volume growth in 2024, ahead of launching its next-generation vehicle.
“I’m often optimistic regarding time. But our current schedule shows that we will start production towards the end of 2025, sometime in the second half,” Musk stated during an earnings call.
Tesla faces a period of slowing growth and margins as EV demand softens and competition intensifies. The company is approaching the “natural limit” of cost reductions on its existing vehicle lineup, highlighting the urgency to launch new, lower-cost vehicles.
A change in federal EV tax credit eligibility has also impacted Tesla. Only specific models now qualify for the $7,500 tax credit. This development comes amidst the release of the Cybertruck and the announcement of the refreshed Model 3 in North America. Challenges such as the replacement of some Tesla vehicles in Hertz’s fleet and issues with the charging network in colder climates have also affected Tesla’s outlook for 2024.