Normal view

There are new articles available, click to refresh the page.
Before yesterdayMain stream

US Sales Could Climb To Highest Level Next Year Since 2019

  • Thanks to interest rate cuts and swelling inventory, sales are expected to get a healthy boost next year.
  • However, potential tariffs under the Trump administration could lead to price hikes.

Analysts predict that between 16.2 million and 16.3 million new cars could be sold across the United States next year. This would mark the strongest year in sales since 2019, up from the projected 15.98 million cars sold this year.

Several factors could contribute to a sales boost in 2025. The Federal Reserve recently cut interest rates for the third time this year, and inventory has started to improve in the second half of the year. Additionally, the average transaction price for new cars in 2024 is $47,465, or 0.8% lower than in 2023. Prices remain 27.2% higher than in 2019 however, when roughly 17 million new vehicles were sold in the US.

Read: Electrified Vehicles Grab Over 20% Of US Market Share With Hybrids Leading The Way

S&P Global Mobility and Edmunds estimate that 16.2 million new vehicles will be sold in 2025. Analysts from Cox Automotive put that figure closer to 16.3 million. This jump could happen despite the estimated price hikes due to the tariffs expected to be enforced by the Trump administration.

Edmunds believes that new tariffs “could dramatically increase vehicle prices” and that the added cost will be passed on to consumers. It’s possible that scrapping the $7,500 federal EV tax credit could slow sales of electric vehicles. However, there may be a temporary increase in EV sales before the credit is ditched as buyers could rush in and get a deal while they can. Cox Automotive says 10% of new vehicles sold next year could be BEVs, and 25% of new vehicle sales will be electrified.

 US Sales Could Climb To Highest Level Next Year Since 2019

The tariffs proposed by the incoming president might not be more than negotiation tactics, but if they were enacted they would likely affect the costs of nearly all goods and services — not just car prices,” Edmunds’ head of insights Jessica Caldwell said. “Consumers would have less disposable income and automakers would likely need to increase incentive spending just to move metal. Things could get interesting if automakers consider stop-gap solutions such as reviving used vehicle leasing or subscription services, or devising completely new models in order to offer vehicles at less cost to the consumer.”

If tariffs are enforced, the price gap between new and used cars is expected to grow, pushing more shoppers towards a used vehicle. This year, the average transaction price for used vehicles was $27,252, a 5.4% decrease compared to 2023.

 US Sales Could Climb To Highest Level Next Year Since 2019
 US Sales Could Climb To Highest Level Next Year Since 2019

There Are Over 250 Used Cybertrucks For Sale Across The US But Markups Continue

  • Many of the Cybertrucks up for sale are Foundation Series models.
  • While prices have fallen, there are still plenty of hopeful sellers out there.

Earlier this year, the first Tesla Cybertrucks started to hit the used market, and to say that some people were paying insane premiums for them would be an understatement. In fact, one of the first Cybertrucks was sold for a frankly ridiculous $244,000. However, since now it’s possible to order a brand new one and take delivery in just a matter of weeks, how has that affected used prices?

After browsing through the classifieds, we’ve found more than 250 Cybertrucks on the market looking for new homes. While most used Cybertrucks are now much cheaper than they were six months ago, there don’t appear to be all that many bargains out there.

Read: Feds Looking Into Fatal Tesla Cybertruck Crash That Killed Three Teens

Quite a lot of them listed for sale through AutoTrader are Foundation Series models. When first launched, the Foundation Series Cybertruck cost $99,990, a $20,000 premium over the standard model that’s now available. The Foundation Series Cyberbeast also commanded a $20,000 premium over the regular Beast. These special-edition models come with a handful of accessories, including an off-road light bar, gear locker dividers, a Powershare mobile connector, a glass roof sunshade, and a center console tray.

 There Are Over 250 Used Cybertrucks For Sale Across The US But Markups Continue

There are some dual-motor Foundation Series models listed between $85,000 and $90,000, but plenty are sitting between $90,000 and $100,000. More surprising than that is that dozens of used Cybertrucks still have asking prices over the original MSRP, despite having several thousand miles under their belts. The single most expensive AWD Foundation Series we could find has been listed for sale by Celebrity Auto Group for a frankly ridiculous $189,900. That’s pricier than even the most expensive Cyberbeast Foundation Series on the market, most of which are for sale for between $100,000 and $130,000.

It’s worth mentioning that these are simply asking prices and aren’t completely reflective of what Cybertrucks are currently trading hands for. A look at Bring a Trailer reveals that in November, two Cyberbeast Foundation Series examples were sold for $96,500 and $99,500, respectively. In October, an AWD Foundation Series traded hands for just $75,000.

\\\\\\\\\\\\\

Image Credit: AutoTrader

Viral Cybertruck Coated In $60,000 Of 24K Gold Hits the Auction Block

  • What may be the most famous Cybertruck ever is officially going up for sale.
  • Given the gold plating, JerryRigEverything thinks its value is estimated at around $200K.
  • Every dollar from the sale, including the buyer’s fee, will benefit a charity.

Say what you will about the age of influencers or the divisive Tesla Cybertruck, but this story has both—plus a generous dose of feel-good energy. Meet the golden Cybertruck, a 2024 Tesla Cybertruck Foundation Series plated in real 24-karat gold and owned by Zack Nelson, the YouTuber behind JerryRigEverything. Now, this viral truck is up for auction, with all proceeds heading to charity.

This is a 2024 Tesla Cybertruck Foundation Series and it’s very famous. Yes, the model has in general made a name for itself but this truck in particular is more well-known than most. Marques Brownlee (MKBHD), TheStradman, Doug DeMuro, and JerryRigEverything (Zack Nelson) have all reviewed this example.

More: Seattle’s Viral Tesla Cybertruck Heads To Auction After Months Of Internet Fame

IIn fact, it was JerryRigEverything that handled the real gold plating on the truck, applying some $60,000 worth of gold to its bodywork. Once finished, Ridge Wallet, who owns the truck, intended to give it to a contest winner. That winner instead opted for a cash prize. Now, the truck is officially on sale with all the proceeds, including the buyer’s fee, going to the Not A Wheelchair Foundation. That means that whoever buys this truck will not only have a unique item but they’ll do some good in the process.

Nelson posted a video about the no-reserve auction and his wheelchair business. He calls it the least expensive manual wheelchair made in the USA. “Making inexpensive wheelchairs is actually pretty expensive,” he says in the video.

The truck bears signatures from several high-profile people who have reviewed it. Nelson estimates its value at around $200,000, primarily due to the 24K gold plating. However, as any car enthusiast knows, mods rarely pay off when it comes time to sell. Without the flashy plating, it’s just another Cybertruck—and one with a few flaws.

In any case, this is a dual-motor version of the truck with 600 horsepower. It also features 20-inch wheels, an 18.5-inch infotainment system, and a four-wheel steering system.

Whoever buys it will have to settle for a few imperfections. There are a few scratches and dings on the passenger bedside. In addition, the A-pillar panel on the passenger side is loose. Nelson says he’ll gold plate the replacement for the new owner when the part arrives.

As of this writing, bidding on Cars&Bids has already past $86,000, with several days left on the clock. Of all the Cybertrucks out there, this one might turn the most heads. Love it or hate it, this truck is a symbol of internet fame and philanthropy wrapped into one glittering, angular package.

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

Image Credit: Cars&Bids

2,200-Mile Tesla Model 3 Performance ‘Highland’ Sells For $12k Under MSRP

  • The Tesla Model 3 Performance is a seriously fast sports sedan.
  • Now, buyers are finding it with deep discounts on the second-hand market.
  • One crossed the auction block at $12k under MSRP and another is up for grabs.

Love them or hate them, electric vehicles can deliver mind-bending performance. We’re talking supercar levels of acceleration here, at least for 0-60 mph (96 km/h) and quarter-mile sprints. Take the Tesla Model 3 Performance, for instance.

Priced from $54,990 or $47,490 if you choose the no-cost Stealth Grey option and meet the requirements for the $7,500 federal tax credit (the only color that qualifies without adding the $8,000 FSD package, which unlocks eligibility for all colors and also nets you the tax credit), it might just be the best value in the EV sports sedan segment. That is, as long as you can stomach the depreciation that comes with it, especially compared to something like a BMW M3, which holds its value far better.

More: New Tesla Model 3 Long Range Gets Acceleration Boost Option In Some Markets

Not only does the Model 3 Performance outrun a BMW M3, but it also costs tens of thousands less than the German contender. For context, the base rear-wheel-drive M3 starts at $76,000, offering 473hp and a 0-60 time of 4.1 seconds. Step up to the M3 Competition xDrive, with its 523hp and a quicker 3.4-second sprint to 60 mph, and you’re looking at $85,300. And that’s without touching BMW’s extensive options list.

Meanwhile, the Model 3 Performance hits 60 mph in a blistering 2.8 seconds (albeit with a roll-out, so think around 3 seconds flat without) and rockets through the quarter-mile in about 11 seconds , all while offering just over 300 miles (488 km / EPA estimate) of range. Oh, and did we mention buyers are snapping up these Teslas for bargains on the second-hand market?

Second-Hand Steals

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

Photos Cars&Bids

For example, a Model 3 Performance in Ultra Red recently sold on Cars & Bids for just $46,250. It had only 2,200 miles on the odometer having been purchased new in June of 2024. To put that into perspective, that’s Lexus ES money for a car that delivers supercar acceleration. Apparently, 2,200 miles is all it takes for some buyers to lose interest in owning such a car.

As with all Model Performance variants, the car in question featured a panoramic glass roof, a premium interior, heated and ventilated front sport seats, and 20-inch wheels. The sale also included the Tesla Mobile Connector kit, compatible with both 120V outlets and NEMA 14-50 240V outlets for Level 2 charging.

The seller had the windows tinted and much of the body covered in SunTek paint protection film (PPF), which was applied to the front bumper, headlamps, hood, fenders, and mirror caps. Keep in mind that all of this came from Tesla with an MSRP of $58,380. Even at that price, it’s nothing short of a performance bargain.

A Windshield Or Another Tesla?

 2,200-Mile Tesla Model 3 Performance ‘Highland’ Sells For $12k Under MSRP

Interestingly, we’re about to see if this trend continues as another Model 3 Performance is up for sale again over on Cars & Bids. It has even fewer miles, just 800 so far, and with one day left into the auction, the highest bid stands at $38,250 at the time of writing with a day left (the auction ends on December 2). That’s for a car that, according to the listing, cost $56,380 new.

But why is the seller parting ways with it after so little time? As it turns out, replacing a windshield was enough to drive them into another Tesla. After all, who needs a windshield when you can just buy an entirely new car? Now that’s forward thinking.

“When I had to replace the windshield, Tesla had difficulties getting a replacement. They kept arriving damaged. Then, there was a lack of availability. It was dragging on. I was impatient. I just bought another Tesla while waiting for this one to be repaired,” the seller explained.

And he’s not alone either. A little digging reveals that windshield replacement for Teslas can be a frustrating and costly ordeal. When parts do finally arrive, the cost can hit nearly $1,500. Despite these headaches, the Model 3 Performance remains a killer deal in the sports sedan market. Whether new or lightly used, it’s hard to argue with this level of speed and value.

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

Photos Cars&Bids

New EV Sales Up 7%, Used EVs 64% Up Over Last Year

  • Last month, 106,155 new EVs were sold in the U.S., a 2.3% increase year-over-year.
  • Higher incentives and improved leasing options are key factors behind the EV sales surge.
  • The average transaction price for new EVs dropped to $56,902, down 1.2% month-over-month.

While the growth in electric vehicle sales has slowed throughout much of 2024, this year is still shaping up to break records for both new and used EV sales across the United States. The shift toward electrification remains one of the most pivotal trends in the automotive world, and even with a few bumps along the way, the market is continuing to evolve.

According to recent data published by Cox Automotive, October saw 106,155 new EVs sold across the country, representing a 2.3% increase from September and a 6.7% rise year-to-date. This solid performance means that over 1 million new EVs have been sold in the USA through the first ten months of 2024.

Read: Global Electrified Sales Soared 31% In September, Driven By China’s Boom

Electric models now make up a significant 7.9% of the total new car market, a figure that highlights the segment’s growing share despite a broader industry slowdown.

 New EV Sales Up 7%, Used EVs 64% Up Over Last Year
Cox Automotive

Incentives And Leasing Drive the Growth

Two of the key reasons behind this growth are stronger incentives and more attractive leasing options. Cox Automotive reports that incentives on new EVs in October represented 13.7% of the average transaction price. This trend has undoubtedly helped tip the scales for buyers who might have otherwise been hesitant. Speaking of price, the average transaction price for a new EV last month was $56,902, marking a modest 1.2% decrease from the previous month, which suggests that price sensitivity may be easing as the market matures.

It’s clear that price isn’t the only factor driving new EV purchases. Leasing, too, has become a more favorable option for consumers looking to get into the EV game with less financial commitment upfront. This shift, combined with incentives, has helped sustain EV momentum even as broader car sales have slowed.

Used EV Market Grows Rapidly

The used EV market is experiencing a boom of its own. In October, 23,788 used EVs were sold—a 2.7% increase from September and a staggering 39.5% jump year-over-year. Used EVs now make up 1.6% of the overall used car market.

Meanwhile, the average listing price for a used EV in October fell to $37,912, marking a 6.4% decrease compared to the previous year. This decline suggests that as new EVs become more affordable, their used counterparts are following suit, providing a more accessible entry point for buyers. However, this also means current owners are facing higher depreciation.

 New EV Sales Up 7%, Used EVs 64% Up Over Last Year
Cox Automotive

Supply And Demand Shifts

As the market for both new and used EVs grows, supply dynamics are also shifting. Last month, the average supply of new EVs on dealer lots was 101 days, marking a 6.3% increase from the previous month. However, it’s a 9.3% drop from the same time last year, signaling that EVs are moving faster through dealerships. In comparison, used EVs had an average supply of 48 days, holding steady month-over-month and remaining just two days higher than used internal combustion engine (ICE) models, which averaged 46 days.

More: California To Reinstate EV Rebates If Trump Scraps Tax Credit, Just Not For Tesla

Despite the broader slowdown in 2024, the U.S. EV market remains robust. At the end of the third quarter, EV sales in the country had surged 11% year over year and reached an all-time high of 8.9% of the new car market. This strong rebound indicates that interest, at least for now, in the segment is far from fading, even as overall EV growth momentum wavered earlier in the year.

Uncertainty Ahead

However, it remains to be seen how the EV market will respond next year when the Trump administration takes office. The new leadership has promised to slash federal electric vehicle subsidies, a move that could disrupt the industry’s momentum, even if state-level rebates, like those in California, remain intact.

 New EV Sales Up 7%, Used EVs 64% Up Over Last Year
Cox Automotive

Seattle’s Viral Tesla Cybertruck Heads To Auction After Months Of Internet Fame

  • A Tesla Cybertruck that went viral on Reddit after being abandoned in Seattle is up for auction.
  • This battered electric truck could return to the road but needs significant and costly repairs.
  • Copart is auctioning several wrecked Cybertrucks, one already attracting a $20,000 bid.

The Tesla Cybertruck has been no stranger to controversy, but a crashed example that gained viral fame is now taking on a new role—as an auction lot. The battered EV will need some repairs, but it could return to the roads, provided someone is willing to foot the bill for the undoubtedly costly and lengthy repairs.

This particular Cybertruck first made headlines a few months ago when it was spotted abandoned on the side of a road in Seattle, sporting significant damage to its driver’s side rear wheel. What followed was a mix of digital and real-world antics: Reddit threads, a short-lived stint as a tourist attraction on Google Maps, and even local residents leaving flowers at its forlorn resting place.

Read: Sixth Time The Charm? Tesla Cybertruck Recalled Over Loss Of Drive Power

The viral moment ended in September when the vehicle was towed away, and now, as Jalopnik first uncovered, it’s landed at Copart’s North Seattle location, awaiting its next chapter.

What’s the Damage?

Details about the crash that sidelined this Cybertruck remain elusive, but the aftermath tells its own story. Evidently, one of the rear wheels has taken quite a hefty hit, and it’s been bent out of position, indicating there’s some serious suspension issues hidden from view. The accompanying fender has also been ripped from the car, leaving the charging port exposed.

Anyone interested in placing a bid on this Cybertruck would be wise to check it out in person beforehand. It’s possible that the vulnerable cast aluminum frame of the Tesla may have sustained structural compromise from the collision, and if that’s the case, it may be extremely costly to repair or replace.

\\\\\\\\\\

Image Credit: Copart

A Growing Graveyard of Cybertrucks

Interestingly, this isn’t the only mangled Cybertruck up for grabs. Copart currently lists 11 other examples scattered across the U.S., many of which appear to have fared even worse than this Seattle star. Some of them appear to have more extensive damage than this one and yet are already attracting bids. One particular rough example (below) with severe structural compromise to the front, rear, and sides after a punishing crash had attracted a bid of over $20,000 at the time of writing.

\\\\\\\\\\\\\

Image Credit: Copart

❌
❌