Volkswagen ID.4 Faces a Steep Decline in the U.S.
VW introduced the ID.4 in 2021 as a crossover SUV aimed at the American market, pricing it around $35,000 and building it in Tennessee. Initial sales were solid, peaking at 37,789 units in 2023.
However, a door‑latch recall, a production halt, and the cancellation of federal EV incentives contributed to a sharp drop. In 2024 sales fell, and by the end of 2025 only 248 units were delivered in Q4, bringing the year‑total to 23,373.
Competing EVs such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6, with 800‑volt architectures and lower pricing, have left the ID.4 “in the dust” on charging speed and value. The longest‑range ID.4 now offers about 290 miles per charge at a price near $45,000, roughly $7,500 more than a comparable Ioniq 5.
Uber, Nvidia and Mercedes‑Benz Team Up for Luxury Robotaxis
The three companies announced a joint effort to create a fleet of premium robotaxis built on Mercedes‑Benz’s S‑Class platform.
- Mercedes provides the luxury sedan chassis.
- Nvidia supplies DRIVE AV software and the DRIVE Hyperion architecture, targeting Level 4 autonomy.
- Uber integrates its ride‑hailing network to operate the fleet.
This collaboration expands on Uber’s earlier partnership with Nvidia announced in October of the previous year.
Volvo Commits to Third‑Party Infotainment Platforms
Amid a trend of automakers dropping Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Volvo’s chief engineering and technology officer, Anders Bell, affirmed that Volvo will “absolutely” continue supporting these platforms across its lineup, including new electric models.
The stance aims to preserve a seamless digital experience for customers who rely on familiar smartphone integrations, especially in rental‑car scenarios.
Tesla to End Production of Model S and Model X
During its Q4 earnings call, CEO Elon Musk announced that Tesla will cease production of the Model S and Model X in the second quarter of 2026.
The decision, while surprising to enthusiasts, is presented as a strategic move to streamline the product portfolio and allow prospective buyers time to acquire the remaining inventory.