Electric Cars

Hyundai Motor has announced a significant recall impacting close to 8,000 Genesis GV60 electric vehicles. This proactive measure aims to address a manufacturing flaw related to the windshield molding, which could potentially detach while the vehicle is in operation. Despite the absence of reported accidents or injuries, this recall underscores the company's commitment to vehicle safety and customer assurance.

Hyundai Recalls Genesis GV60 EVs Amidst Windshield Molding Concerns

Hyundai Motor is initiating a recall for approximately 7,855 units of its 2023-2025 model year Genesis GV60 electric vehicles across the United States. The core concern revolves around the upper windshield molding, which may exhibit signs of peeling or complete detachment during driving. This issue stems from inadequate adhesion during the manufacturing process by a supplier, as identified through internal tests conducted by Hyundai.

Drivers of affected vehicles might notice an unusual wind noise or whistling sound originating from the top section of the windshield. While the defect is estimated to affect only about 1% of the recalled vehicles, Hyundai has recorded 112 instances of molding detachment between October 26, 2022, and August 8, 2025. Fortunately, no collisions or personal injuries have been linked to this problem.

This recall follows a broader campaign by Hyundai last week, which included nearly 600,000 Palisade, IONIQ 5, and IONIQ 6 vehicles. For the Genesis GV60 recall, owner notification letters are scheduled to be dispatched by November 17, 2025. Owners with inquiries can contact Genesis customer service at 844-340-9741, referencing Hyundai's recall number 028G. Additional information is available through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Vehicle Safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or on their website, nhtsa.gov, under campaign number 25V624.

According to data from Cox Automotive, Hyundai sold 3,400 Genesis GV60 models in the US in 2023, followed by 2,866 in 2024, and an additional 1,192 in the first half of 2025. This recall encompasses nearly all Genesis GV60 vehicles sold in the US during this period. Currently, the GV60 and Electrified GV70 are the only two Genesis EV models available in the US market, following the discontinuation of the Electrified G80 earlier this year.

The proactive recall of Genesis GV60 EVs highlights the automotive industry's continuous effort to prioritize consumer safety and product quality. Despite the low estimated defect rate, Hyundai's swift action in addressing this potential issue demonstrates a responsible approach to manufacturing and customer care. This event reinforces the importance of stringent quality control throughout the supply chain, particularly as the automotive sector transitions towards more complex electric vehicle technologies. For consumers, it serves as a reminder to heed recall notices and ensure their vehicles are serviced promptly to mitigate any safety risks. This commitment to safety is crucial for building and maintaining trust in evolving automotive brands and their electric offerings.

In Europe, August 2025 data revealed a 22% drop in Tesla's vehicle deliveries, a noticeable deceleration from prior months' sharper declines. However, this downturn is particularly concerning because it occurred during a period when the overall battery-electric vehicle market experienced a 30% increase in sales. This trend suggests a significant challenge for Tesla in a rapidly expanding sector. The divergence between Tesla's performance and the broader market's growth raises questions about the company's strategies and competitive positioning in the European electric vehicle landscape.

Adding to the complexity, the year-to-date figures show an even starker contrast, with Tesla's deliveries down 32.6% compared to the previous year. This decline is set against a backdrop of substantial growth in both battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle segments, with the latter seeing a 54.5% surge. The disparity underscores a critical juncture for Tesla, especially as competitors like BYD demonstrate remarkable growth in the same market. This situation highlights the evolving dynamics of the European EV market, where Tesla's early dominance is increasingly challenged by both established and emerging players.

Tesla's Struggling European Performance Amidst EV Boom

In August 2025, Tesla experienced a 22% reduction in its vehicle deliveries across Europe, a statistic that, while less severe than previous months, still represents a significant setback. This decline is particularly noteworthy because it occurred during a period of robust expansion for the broader electric vehicle market, which saw a 30% increase in sales. The year-to-date figures further underscore this challenge, with Tesla's deliveries down 32.6% compared to the same period in 2024. This trend suggests that Tesla is not fully capitalizing on the growing demand for electric vehicles in Europe, raising concerns about its market strategy and competitive standing.

The European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA) report highlighted that while Tesla's sales faltered, battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle sales surged by 30.2% and 54.5% respectively. This stark contrast indicates a potential shift in consumer preferences or a more competitive landscape where other manufacturers are gaining ground. Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, has reportedly downplayed these sales figures, redirecting investor focus towards autonomous driving and robotics. However, critics argue that such a stance overlooks immediate market realities and the aggressive growth of rivals like BYD, which has seen its European sales increase by 215% in August and 280% year-to-date.

BYD's Ascendance and Tesla's Strategic Crossroads

The rise of competitors like BYD presents a significant challenge to Tesla's market position in Europe. In August, BYD surpassed Tesla in sales within the EU, selling 9,130 units compared to Tesla's 8,220. Although Tesla maintained a lead in the broader European market (including EFTA and the UK), with 14,831 units sold against BYD's 11,455, the rapid growth trajectory of BYD is undeniable. The Chinese automaker, despite facing tariffs and being a relatively new entrant to the European market, demonstrates a remarkable ability to capture market share, growing by 215% in August alone, while Tesla's sales declined.

This aggressive expansion by BYD, coupled with Tesla's sales slump, indicates a crucial strategic crossroads for the American EV giant. The divergence in performance suggests that Tesla's current approach in Europe may need re-evaluation. The long-term implications of BYD's sustained growth could see it overtake Tesla in annual European sales, signaling a significant shift in the competitive landscape. As the electric vehicle market continues its rapid evolution, Tesla's ability to adapt its strategy and address the challenges posed by dynamic market conditions and emerging competitors will be critical to its future success in the region.