CHAPTER NINEEverybody into the EV Pool
While it could be argued that Tesla launched the twenty-first-century transition to EVs, it's certainly not the only one in the game. When all the hoopla over the Model 3 settles, Elon Musk and Tesla have to contend with Big Auto.
WHAT ABOUT BIG AUTO?
Yes, established car companies have been slow to recognize the transition to EVs is real. But when they saw how fast Tesla booked 500,000 orders for its inexpensive Model 3 EV, they quickly revised their future model plans. These are well-established car companies. They have solid sales and existing dealers with repair operations in place. And let's face it: These guys are tough competitors. And some already have competing models to the Model 3.
In this chapter, I'll explore the current EV offerings from each of the major manufacturers. I'll also talk about what might keep some of these companies from being successful in the EV market. In addition, I'll look at some of the secondary effects of transitioning to an all-electric transportation environment. I'll also discuss China. It's a unique environment for EVs. Many of its models will never be sold anywhere outside of the country. I fully expect there will be several new models announced between the time I finish this manuscript and the book is actually published. However, this compendium of models should give you a sense of the size and scope of the global transition to a future in which EVs will quickly become the major mode of personal ...