Tesla, a U.S.-based manufacturer of electric vehicles, has, over time, been unable to deliver some of its vehicles owing to production delays.
Here are some examples of vehicles that have faced production or delivery delays:
Tesla Model X and Model S Plaid:
The initial deliveries of these high-end electric vehicles are scheduled for late 2021 due to supply chain concerns and production challenges.
This high-performance electric sports automobile was initially announced in 2017 with a delivery date of 2020, however, it was been postponed due to technical difficulties and the prioritising of other projects.
Tesla Cybertruck:
This futuristic electric pickup truck was introduced in 2019 with a delivery date scheduled for late 2021, however, manufacturing has been delayed due to the construction of a new factory and supply chain concerns.
Tesla Semi:
Since its introduction in 2017, manufacturing of this electric lorry has been repeatedly delayed, with the most current estimate placing production in 2022.
Read also: Tesla Semi: A game-changer for the trucking industry
Reasons for the delays
In the automotive industry, production and delivery delays are frequent, and Tesla is no exception. Notwithstanding these setbacks, Tesla has continued to innovate and push the limits of electric vehicle technology, and many of its products have achieved market dominance.
Supply Chain Challenges:
Due to supply chain difficulties, such as a lack of raw materials and electrical components, Tesla has encountered delays in vehicle production. In 2021, for instance, the global shortage of semiconductor chips hindered Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y vehicle production. According to Tesla’s Q2 2021 earnings call, “global semiconductor supply chain issues” significantly hindered the company’s ability to construct vehicles at the anticipated rate.
Tesla has also encountered technological obstacles that have delayed the production of several of its vehicles. For instance, the Roadster, which was first announced in 2017 with a delivery date of 2020, has been delayed due to technological obstacles such as battery technology breakthroughs and engineering hurdles.