Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) has entered into a collaboration with Ford Motor Co. (NYSE:F), granting the Detroit electric vehicle (EV) automaker access to Tesla’s extensive supercharger network. This partnership signals a step toward cooperation in the competitive EV market. However, Fisker Inc. (NYSE:FSR) experienced a notable downturn in 2023.
Fisker’s financial report for the fourth quarter of 2023 revealed a quarterly loss of $0.39 per share, with revenue falling significantly short of projections. The disclosed revenue of $200.07 million for the quarter missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate by nearly 40%.
CEO Henrik Fisker attributed these challenges to supplier delays and operational hurdles, particularly affecting the delivery of the highly anticipated Ocean SUV.
Acknowledging looming financial constraints, Fisker expressed the necessity to explore additional equity or debt financing avenues, although success in these endeavors remains uncertain.
“On the strategic front, Fisker is in negotiations with a large automaker for a potential transaction which could include an investment in Fisker, joint development of one or more electric vehicle platforms and North American manufacturing. The closing of any transaction would be subject to satisfaction of important conditions, including completion of due diligence and negotiation and execution of appropriate definitive agreements,” Fisker said.
As a proactive measure in the meantime to address potential liquidity issues, the company announced a 15% reduction in its workforce.
Following this announcement, shares of Fisker fell about 38% after hours.
Tesla has held a dominant position in the EV sector with its diverse model lineup and expansive supercharger network. In 2023, Tesla reported revenue of $96.8 billion, a 19% increase from 2022.
With the recent partnership between Tesla and Ford, the dynamics of the EV market are poised for a shift. Ford’s access to over 15,000 Tesla superchargers across the United States and Canada shows progress.
“This move will improve the public charging experience by giving our customers even more choice and is a vital part of our growth as an EV brand,” said Ford CEO Jim Farley.
As Tesla extends an olive branch to a competitor and Ford makes strides in expanding its charging infrastructure, the landscape of the EV market continues to evolve, highlighting the importance of innovation, collaboration and adaptation in this rapidly changing industry.