Building on November's EV sales slump where Tesla gained market share despite industry declines (see prior coverage), Tesla topped US automakers with a $1.61 trillion market value as 2025 ended, amid tariffs, slowing EV adoption, and policy shifts. GM, Ford, Rivian, and Lucid followed with mixed results.
The US auto sector closed 2025 with EV makers leading by market cap amid headwinds from global tariffs, lost federal incentives, and softening demand.
Tesla commands $1.61 trillion, up 20.3% YTD. Despite US EV sales nearing four-year lows—even after affordable Model Y and 3 launches post-tax credit elimination—NHTSA probes Model 3 safety issues. Backlash over CEO Elon Musk's politics persists, but Tesla advances autonomy and plans one million annual Optimus robots.
General Motors follows at $77.32 billion, up 55.6% YTD across its combustion and EV lineup. New tariffs triggered a profit cut forecast of up to $5 billion; GM tightened Cruise oversight and EV cost controls.
Ford stands at $53.23 billion, up 35% YTD. It booked a $19.5 billion charge by axing EV projects amid weak demand and competition from Tesla and Chinese rivals.
Rivian hit $25.91 billion, up 58.9% YTD on electric trucks and SUVs. After layoffs and credit losses, its 'Autonomy & AI Day' unveiled in-house chips and a new platform, lifting shares.
Lucid trails at $3.83 billion, down 60.9% YTD. The luxury EV maker, backed by Saudi PIF, stresses efficiency ahead of Gravity SUV launch despite high rates and incentives gaps.