automaker with the highest EV market share, has faced increasing competition from legacy automakers and new entrants. Tesla’s market share in the U.S. fell to 14.4% in September, down from 17.2% in August, according to Cox Automotive.

“We’ve seen the bar raised. We have a lot of respect for the competition,” Tesla CEO Elon Musk said during the company’s third-quarter earnings call. “It’s tough. Like, 10 years ago, we were the only game in town, but that’s no longer the case.”

Tesla is facing scrutiny, as its stock has fallen recently and its market cap has dropped below $1 trillion. In response, Musk has announced a major restructuring of the company, including a focus on reducing costs and increasing profitability in order to remain competitive in the EV market.

Tesla emerged as the leader in EV sales, boosting sales and market valuation significantly. Other automakers tried to replicate Tesla’s success, but consumers were drawn to the Tesla brand. Tesla’s tech-focused approach and loyal customer base set it apart. However, the search for the “next Tesla” led to numerous new EV companies going bankrupt due to scandals and executive upheaval.

The initial euphoria surrounding EVs began to fade as legacy automakers entered the market, investing large sums in unprofitable vehicles. President Donald Trump’s second inauguration dealt a blow to the EV industry by ending federal incentives of up to $7,500 for EV purchases. This led to a slowdown in sales and production, making the upcoming year crucial for EVs.

Read more at CNBC
1. Tesla reports record quarterly profit of $438 million, beating expectations and sending stock up 4%.
2. Apple’s new iPhone 13 lineup unveiled, with improved cameras and longer battery life.
3. Federal Reserve announces plans to begin tapering its bond-buying program in November.
4. Facebook whistleblower testifies before Congress, alleging the company prioritizes profits over user safety.
5. U.S. jobless claims fall to new pandemic-era low of 293,000.: EV realism is here. How GM, Hyundai, Ford react in 2026 will be telling