Tesla’s Chinese operations are poised for a significant sales uptick in the third quarter of 2024, driven by newly implemented government incentives for electric vehicles (EVs). This development comes at a crucial time for the automaker, potentially offsetting challenges in other key markets.
In July 2024, the Chinese government took a bold step to accelerate EV adoption:
- Doubled existing EV subsidies
- Introduced a new $2,770 per vehicle incentive for consumers replacing traditional cars with EVs
- Encouraged regional governments to support vehicle replacement programs
The National Development and Reform Commission and Ministry of Finance jointly stated, “All regional governments are encouraged to support vehicle purchase(s) for replacement purposes. As consumers dump their used cars, measures should be taken to bolster purchases of new passenger cars.”
Analyst Projections
Barclays analyst Dan Levy views this development positively for Tesla:
- Describes the timing as “very opportune” for the company
- Believes China’s strength will help “offset ongoing weakness in the US and Europe”
- Forecasts Tesla will deliver 470,000 units globally in Q3
A Bloomberg survey of analysts predicts Tesla will report approximately 463,900 vehicle deliveries worldwide for Q3 2024, representing a 7% year-over-year increase.
Implications for Tesla
- Expected to report its first quarterly sales increase of 2024
- Giga Shanghai’s performance crucial to overall results
- Potentially marks a turning point after challenges earlier in the year
As global EV competition intensifies, Tesla’s ability to capitalize on favorable policy shifts in key markets like China could prove pivotal for maintaining its industry-leading position.