Tesla U.S. Sales Drop to Nearly 4-Year Low!
About this episode
Tesla's U.S. sales have plummeted to their lowest level in nearly four years, with only 39,800 vehicles sold in November. Factors contributing to this decline include the expiration of the federal EV tax credit, high interest rates, and a lack of new model launches. The episode also covers significant recalls from Waymo and Ford, concerns over Chinese automakers, and potential delays in new EPA pollution rules. Notable automotive developments include Subaru's affordable 2026 Uncharted EV and Toyota's exciting performance concepts, showcasing the industry's shift towards electric and high-performance vehicles.
Tesla U.S. sales just fell to their lowest level in nearly 4 years — and it’s sending shockwaves through the EV market. In this episode of Weekly Wheelhouse, we break down what’s driving the slowdown, what it means for EV buyers, and how automakers are responding.
This week’s top U.S. automotive stories include:
• Tesla’s U.S. sales drop despite price cuts and cheaper trims
• Waymo recalling autonomous vehicles over school-bus safety concerns
• Ford recalling more than 100,000 vehicles, including Escape models
• U.S. automakers warning Congress about Chinese auto competition
• EPA considering delays to 2027 vehicle pollution rules
Plus, in our OEM Pressroom Roundup:
• Subaru reveals the all-new 2026 Subaru Uncharted EV
• Mercedes-Benz debuts a new GLB with 800-volt EV technology
• Toyota Gazoo Racing shows off the GR GT and GR GT3 concepts
• Lexus previews a new electric LFA-inspired supercar
• Toyota expands its massive Arizona proving ground
I also recap my review of the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Nightshade and share what I’m currently driving — the 2025 Jeep Gladiator High Tide — plus what’s coming next.
If you want clear, factual automotive news without the hype, you’re in the right place.
2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Review - https://youtu.be/lONzEDU7nDs?si=XoZiiNXiwdhJ_mnn
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Off the Shelf Rides
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Tesla Model Y
"...released cheaper standard range versions of the Model 3 and the Model Y. Three big issues are driving the slowdown."
The Tesla Model Y is an electric SUV that is larger than the Model 3. It's designed for families and has more room for passengers and cargo.
The Tesla Model Y is a compact electric SUV that shares many components with the Model 3. It offers more space and versatility, making it a popular choice among families and those needing additional cargo capacity.
Tesla Model 3
"...released cheaper standard range versions of the Model 3 and the Model Y. Three big issues are driving the slowdown."
The Tesla Model 3 is a popular electric car known for being more affordable than other Teslas. It's designed for everyday use and has a good range on a single charge.
The Tesla Model 3 is a compact electric sedan that has gained popularity for its performance, range, and affordability compared to other electric vehicles. It is part of Tesla's lineup aimed at making electric cars more accessible to the general public.
EV tax credit
"...the $7,500 federal EV tax credit expired for Tesla buyers in September."
An EV tax credit is money you can get back from the government when you buy an electric car. It helps lower the overall price you pay for the car.
The EV tax credit is a financial incentive provided by the government to encourage the purchase of electric vehicles. It can significantly reduce the cost for buyers, making EVs more attractive options.
EV market
"Despite the dip, Tesla still holds about 56% of the U.S. EV market, and that share continues to shrink."
The EV market is where electric cars are sold. These cars run on electricity instead of gas, and more people are buying them because they are better for the environment.
The EV market refers to the market for electric vehicles, which are cars powered by electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. This market has been growing rapidly as more consumers seek sustainable transportation options.
incentives
"If this trend continues, we could see more aggressive incentives, stronger lease deals,..."
Incentives are special deals or discounts that help people buy cars. They can include things like tax breaks or lower prices to encourage people to choose electric cars.
Incentives in the automotive context often refer to financial benefits offered to consumers to encourage the purchase of vehicles, such as tax credits, rebates, or special financing offers, especially for electric vehicles.
Waymo
"Waymo is recalling 3,067 self-driving vehicles due to a software issue that caused some vehicles..."
Waymo is a company that works on self-driving cars. They are trying to make cars that can drive themselves without a human driver.
Waymo is a self-driving technology company that originated as a project within Google. It focuses on developing autonomous vehicles and has been testing self-driving cars in various locations.
Ford Escape
"Ford has issued another large recall, this one for 108,762 vehicles, mostly Ford Escape models from 2020 to 2022 and some 2025 models due to a liftgate hinge cover that can detach while driving."
The Ford Escape is a small SUV that many people use for everyday driving. There’s a safety recall because a part of the car's back door could come loose while driving, which could be dangerous.
The Ford Escape is a compact SUV known for its practicality and efficiency. The recall mentioned involves a potential safety issue with the liftgate hinge cover that could detach while driving, posing a risk to safety.
liftgate hinge cover
"...mostly Ford Escape models from 2020 to 2022 and some 2025 models due to a liftgate hinge cover that can detach while driving."
The liftgate hinge cover is a part that covers the hinges of the back door on an SUV. If it falls off while driving, it could be dangerous.
The liftgate hinge cover is a component of the rear door of an SUV that helps conceal the hinge mechanism. If it detaches while driving, it can create a safety hazard, potentially obstructing the driver's view or causing accidents.
Lincoln MKT
"A separate recall affects about 12,000 Lincoln MKT vehicles because an interior door trim piece could separate and increase injury in an accident."
The Lincoln MKT is a fancy SUV that has a lot of space and comfort. There’s a recall because a part inside the car could come loose and make an accident more dangerous.
The Lincoln MKT is a luxury crossover SUV that offers a spacious interior and advanced features. The recall mentioned is due to a potential safety issue with an interior door trim piece that could separate in an accident, increasing the risk of injury.
Toyota
"After U.S. automakers including GM Ford, Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, and Stellanus told Congress this week..."
Toyota is a well-known car company that makes reliable cars and is famous for its hybrid models like the Prius.
Toyota is a leading global automotive manufacturer known for its reliable vehicles and innovations in hybrid technology, such as the Prius.
GM
"After U.S. automakers including GM Ford, Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, and Stellanus told Congress this week..."
GM is a big car company that makes several brands of vehicles, including Chevrolet and Cadillac.
General Motors (GM) is one of the largest automobile manufacturers in the world, producing brands such as Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac.
Hyundai
"After U.S. automakers including GM Ford, Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, and Stellanus told Congress this week..."
Hyundai is a car company from South Korea that makes affordable vehicles and offers good warranties.
Hyundai is a South Korean automotive manufacturer known for its affordable cars and strong warranty offerings, with popular models like the Elantra and Sonata.
Stellantis
"After U.S. automakers including GM Ford, Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, and Stellanus told Congress this week..."
Stellantis is a large car company that makes several brands, including Jeep and Dodge, formed from a merger of two companies.
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturer formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group, producing brands like Jeep, Dodge, and Peugeot.
Honda
"After U.S. automakers including GM Ford, Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, and Stellanus told Congress this week..."
Honda is a large car manufacturer from Japan that makes popular cars like the Civic and Accord.
Honda is a major Japanese automaker known for producing cars, motorcycles, and power equipment, with popular models like the Civic and Accord.
battery production costs
"...Chinese-backed automakers benefit from enormous government subsidies and ultra-low battery production costs..."
Battery production costs are the expenses involved in making batteries, especially for electric cars, which can affect how much those cars cost.
Battery production costs refer to the expenses associated with manufacturing batteries, particularly for electric vehicles, which can significantly impact vehicle pricing.
EV pricing
"This could affect future tariffs, EV pricing, buyer incentives, and even what brands are allowed to sell vehicles in the U.S."
EV pricing is how much electric cars cost. This can change based on things like government help for buyers and how much it costs to make the cars.
EV pricing refers to the cost associated with electric vehicles, which can be influenced by factors like government incentives, production costs, and market demand. As more manufacturers enter the EV market, pricing strategies may evolve.
pollution rules
"The EPA is considering delaying new vehicle pollution rules originally scheduled for model year 2027. The rules would dramatically reduce emissions like nitrogen oxides and push automakers toward producing more EVs and fewer high-emission gas vehicles."
Pollution rules are laws that limit how much harmful stuff cars can put into the air. They help keep the environment cleaner and healthier.
Pollution rules are regulations set by government agencies to limit the amount of harmful emissions that vehicles can produce. These rules aim to improve air quality and reduce the environmental impact of transportation.
EPA
"The EPA is considering delaying new vehicle pollution rules originally scheduled for model year 2027. The rules would dramatically reduce emissions like nitrogen oxides and push automakers toward producing more EVs and fewer high-emission gas vehicles."
The EPA is a government agency that makes rules to protect the environment, including rules about how much pollution cars can produce. Their decisions affect how car manufacturers make their vehicles.
The EPA, or Environmental Protection Agency, is a U.S. government agency responsible for regulating environmental issues, including vehicle emissions and pollution standards. Their decisions can significantly impact the automotive industry and its shift towards cleaner technologies.
high-emission gas vehicles
"The rules would dramatically reduce emissions like nitrogen oxides and push automakers toward producing more EVs and fewer high-emission gas vehicles."
High-emission gas vehicles are cars that release a lot of pollution into the air. They are less environmentally friendly than electric cars.
High-emission gas vehicles are cars and trucks that produce significant amounts of pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides and carbon dioxide, compared to cleaner alternatives like electric vehicles. These vehicles contribute more to air pollution and climate change.
battery supply chains
"...because, one, it increases production costs, two, battery supply chains are still unstable, and three, many buyers still aren't ready to switch to EVs."
Battery supply chains are the steps and companies that make and deliver batteries for electric cars. If there are problems in this process, it can make electric cars harder to get or more expensive.
Battery supply chains refer to the network of companies and processes involved in the production and distribution of batteries, particularly for electric vehicles. Disruptions in these supply chains can affect the availability and cost of EVs.
all-wheel drive
"You get up to 338 horsepower in dual-motor all-wheel-drive trims. You get an estimated 330-mile range depending on your configuration, fast charging capability..."
All-wheel drive means that all four wheels of the car get power from the engine, which helps the car grip the road better, especially in rain or snow.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain configuration that provides power to all four wheels of a vehicle, enhancing traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
horsepower
"You get up to 338 horsepower in dual-motor all-wheel-drive trims. You get an estimated 330-mile range depending on your configuration, fast charging capability..."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The more horsepower a car has, the faster it can go and the better it can accelerate.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement used to quantify the power output of an engine. In this context, the Subaru Uncharted EV offers up to 338 horsepower, indicating its performance capabilities.
Subaru
"Subaru's signature focus on traction and safety, the expected starting price, $34,995."
Subaru is a car company from Japan that makes cars known for being safe and good in bad weather.
Subaru is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for its all-wheel-drive vehicles and focus on safety and reliability.
EV
"...aiming to get more buyers into the EV market without the high price tag."
An EV, or electric vehicle, is a car that runs on electricity instead of using gas or diesel fuel.
EV stands for electric vehicle, which is a type of vehicle that is powered entirely by electricity instead of gasoline or diesel.
Mercedes-Benz GLB
"...ffer today. Mercedes revealed the next-generation GLB, and its headline feature is a new 800-volt elect..."
The Mercedes-Benz GLB is a fancy SUV that has a lot of room inside and comes with high-tech features. The new version has a special system that helps it run better and use less energy.
The Mercedes-Benz GLB is a compact luxury SUV that offers a spacious interior and advanced technology features. The next-generation model introduces an 800-volt electrical system, enhancing its performance and efficiency, making it a strong contender in the luxury SUV market.
Porsche
"electric architecture similar to the tech used in Porsche and Hyundai's high-end EVs."
Porsche is a famous car brand from Germany that makes fast and luxury cars. They are known for their quality and performance.
Porsche is a renowned German automotive manufacturer known for its high-performance sports cars and luxury vehicles. The brand is synonymous with engineering excellence and innovative technology.
Dodge Charger
"...800-volt system dramatically cuts the time at the charger, which is exactly what family SUV buyers want."
The Dodge Charger is a big car that looks sporty and can go really fast. It has a new feature that helps it charge up quickly, which is great for families who want to save time while driving.
The Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan known for its powerful performance and muscular styling. With the introduction of an 800-volt system, it significantly reduces charging times, making it appealing for families looking for efficiency without sacrificing power.
twin-turbo hybrid
"The targets they shared include a four-liter V8 twin-turbo hybrid with over 641 horsepower..."
A twin-turbo hybrid uses two turbochargers and an electric motor to make a car faster and more efficient, helping it use less fuel.
A twin-turbo hybrid system combines two turbochargers with an electric motor to enhance performance and efficiency. This setup allows for increased power output while improving fuel economy and reducing emissions.
high-output electric powertrain
"It features a lightweight chassis strategy, a high-output electric powertrain..."
A high-output electric powertrain is a powerful electric motor and battery setup that makes electric cars go fast.
A high-output electric powertrain refers to an electric motor and battery system designed to deliver significant power and performance, often used in high-performance electric vehicles.
Lexus LFA
"...w aerodynamic design inspired by the original V10 LFA, and Lexus' commitment to emotional, performance-..."
The Lexus LFA is a really fancy sports car that is super fast and rare. It's designed to be very aerodynamic, which helps it move quickly and smoothly through the air.
The Lexus LFA is a high-performance sports car known for its exceptional engineering and limited production. Its aerodynamic design and V10 engine make it a standout in the luxury sports car market, often discussed for its performance and exclusivity.
ADAS
"This expansion adds a new five-and-a-half-mile oval test track, a one-and-three-quarter-mile coast-down surface for fuel economy and efficiency testing, expanded ADAS and safety testing sections..."
ADAS means systems in cars that help drivers stay safe and make driving easier. They can do things like help you stay in your lane or slow down if there's an obstacle ahead.
ADAS stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, which are technologies designed to enhance vehicle safety and facilitate driving. These systems can include features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
Mazda Cx5
"and November sales reports. I also talked about my review of the 2025 Mazda CX-5. So make sure to go back and get caught up."
The Mazda CX-5 is a small SUV that is good for families because it has a lot of space and is easy to drive. The new 2025 version has some cool updates that make it even better.
The Mazda CX-5 is a compact SUV that is praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and engaging driving experience. The 2025 model continues to build on its reputation with updated features and technology, making it a popular choice among families.
Jeep Gladiator
"...ving next. So right now I'm driving the 2025 Jeep Gladiator High Tide, and it was great timing. The snow that..."
The Jeep Gladiator is a truck that can go off-road, meaning it can drive on rough paths and trails. The 2025 version has special features that make it even better for people who love outdoor activities like camping or hiking.
The Jeep Gladiator is a unique pickup truck that combines the off-road capabilities of a Jeep with the utility of a truck bed. The 2025 High Tide edition offers enhanced features for outdoor enthusiasts, making it a popular choice for adventurous drivers.
four-wheel drive
"So I got to drive this home in the snow and I was able to use the four-wheel drive and drive home safely from work."
Four-wheel drive means that all four wheels of a car can get power from the engine at the same time. This helps the car grip the road better, especially in bad weather like snow.
Four-wheel drive (4WD) is a drivetrain system that allows all four wheels of a vehicle to receive power from the engine simultaneously. This is particularly useful for driving on slippery or uneven surfaces, such as snow or off-road conditions.
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