Rivian $RIVN is rapidly emerging as a significant force in the autonomous driving technology landscape, with Morgan Stanley spotlighting the EV company’s integrated AI-powered driving systems. Analysts at the bank suggest that Rivian’s self-driving platform could become a strategic asset for legacy automakers seeking to stay relevant in the evolving EV autonomy race.
Xiaomi $1810.HK, the Chinese tech giant best known for its smartphones, is accelerating its efforts in the electric vehicle (EV) space. On May 22, the company is set to unveil its first all-electric SUV — the YU7 — at its upcoming product launch event. This move expands Xiaomi’s vision of building a comprehensive smart vehicle ecosystem, reinforcing its long-term commitment to innovation in transportation.
The Paris-based International Energy Agency (IEA) has recently cut down its expectations for the growth in global oil demand. Their latest projection now anticipates an increase of merely 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) by the end of 2025. This is a marked slowdown from prior estimates, reflecting multiple economic pressures and the swift adoption of electric vehicles worldwide.
Geely Automobile $0175.HK captured the spotlight on Asian financial markets after announcing its intention to take Zeekr, its innovative electric vehicle subsidiary, private. The news triggered an impressive surge of nearly 7% in Geely’s stock price, as analysts and investors weighed the broader implications of this bold move.
South Korea’s LG Energy Solution $373220.KS, a global leader in EV battery manufacturing, posted a remarkable 138% increase in first-quarter operating profit for 2025. The boost comes despite a broader slowdown in electric vehicle sales across key international markets. A favorable exchange rate — with a weakened Korean won — significantly supported the company’s export-driven business, cushioning the impact of softening demand.
Japanese automaker Nissan Motor Co $7201.T has suspended the development of two electric vehicle models that were initially slated for production in the United States. According to a report by Nikkei, this includes a sedan and an SUV that were to be part of Nissan’s EV lineup manufactured at its Canton plant in Mississippi. The launch of these models was expected by 2028.
Xpeng Inc $XPEV, a leading Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has announced plans to integrate its cutting-edge 5C fast-charging technology and advanced smart driving systems into its mainstream vehicle lineup. The move reflects the company's commitment to enhancing its competitive edge in the increasingly crowded Chinese EV market.
South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor plans to temporarily suspend production of certain electric vehicle (EV) models at its major plant in Ulsan. The decision comes in response to declining global demand for EVs and mounting trade barriers, including new tariffs imposed by the United States.
Recent developments in global trade have again highlighted the vulnerability of supply chains. Xpeng, a prominent Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, has emphasized its commitment to tight oversight following the introduction of new U.S. tariffs under the Trump administration. Mounting tension in U.S.-China relations adds to the uncertainty, demanding swift decisions and flexible strategies.
