Just as GM, Ford and take massive EV write-offs, oil hits $100/barrel

A geopolitical conflict involving Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil supply. This supply shock has caused crude oil prices to spike dramatically, crossing $100/barrel and reaching $115/barrel. This directly benefits companies involved in oil exploration and production. The author is implicitly bullish on oil and, by extension, the energy sector due to a clear supply-side catalyst driving prices higher. The conflict could de-escalate or resolve quickly, reopening the Strait and causing oil prices to fall just as rapidly as they rose.

Ford (and other US automakers) are reportedly taking "massive EV write-offs" at the same time oil prices are surging. This suggests a strategic misstep. Scaling back on fuel-efficient vehicles just as gasoline prices are set to soar will likely hurt consumer demand for their most profitable gas-guzzling trucks and SUVs, impacting future earnings. The author implies that Ford's poor timing and strategic decisions, caught between a costly EV pivot and a high-oil-price environment, make it a compelling short. The "write-offs" may be a prudent financial move to cut losses on unprofitable EV lines. High truck/SUV margins could persist, or the company could pivot back to EVs/hybrids quickly if consumer demand shifts.

GM is mentioned alongside Ford as taking "massive EV write-offs" while oil prices are spiking. This indicates a flawed corporate strategy, abandoning EV investment at the precise moment market conditions (high gas prices) would favor them. This exposes GM to downside risk as consumers potentially shun their profitable but fuel-inefficient vehicle lineup. The author's post suggests that GM, like Ford, is poorly positioned for a high-oil-price environment due to its recent strategic decisions regarding its EV portfolio. GM's portfolio may be more diversified than implied. The write-offs could be a financially sound decision to improve profitability. The oil price spike could be short-lived, validating their focus on ICE vehicles.

Oil prices are surging, making fuel efficiency a top priority for car buyers. The commenter notes that "the Toyota BZ is perfectly priced," implying that Toyota is well-positioned with affordable, fuel-efficient/electric options to capture market share from consumers shocked by high gas prices. Toyota's reputation for reliability and its lineup of hybrids and affordable EVs could see a significant demand boost in a high-oil-price environment, especially compared to US competitors. Toyota's EV offerings may not be as competitive or widely available as implied. A rapid drop in oil prices would reduce the urgency for consumers to switch to more efficient vehicles.

The commenter highlights that Chinese automaker BYD has developed batteries with extremely fast charging capabilities (80% in 5 minutes). This technological superiority, combined with the high price of oil making EVs more attractive, positions BYD to capitalize on global demand for alternatives to gasoline-powered cars. The comment contrasts this with the "short sighted" decisions of US automakers. BYD's technological advantage and focus on EVs make it a strong long-term play, especially as geopolitical events highlight the weaknesses of oil dependency. BYD faces significant geopolitical and tariff risks, particularly in Western markets. The fast-charging technology may not be widely available or compatible with existing infrastructure.