Tesla Faces 9% Delivery Drop and Rumored $16.5B Samsung Chip Expansion
Tesla’s EV deliveries fell 9% to 1.64 million units in 2025 while BYD’s sales jumped 28% to 2.26 million vehicles. Tesla is now reportedly pushing Samsung to boost AI6 wafer output beyond a $16.5B deal through 2033 even as new chip supply issues emerge.
1. Delivery Decline and Competitive Pressure
Tesla’s deliveries declined 9% year-on-year to 1.64 million units in 2025, marking a second consecutive annual drop. Meanwhile, BYD expanded deliveries by 28% to 2.26 million vehicles, underscoring intensifying competition in the EV market.
2. Expanded Samsung AI6 Wafer Contract
Tesla is seeking to expand its AI6 wafer contract with Samsung beyond an initial $16.5 billion agreement through 2033. This move could raise volume at Samsung’s Taylor, Texas foundry and reinforce Tesla’s long-term supply partnership.
3. Emerging Chip Supply Challenges
Tesla is confronting new semiconductor supply constraints that risk delaying production and vehicle deliveries. These chip issues highlight the company’s dependence on stable component sourcing amid rising global EV demand.