Why This Data Point From Tesla’s Q1 Earnings Spells Trouble for Legacy Automakers

Why This Data Point From Tesla’s Q1 Earnings Spells Trouble for Legacy Automakers
A Tesla Model X drives into the tunnel entrance before an unveiling event for the Boring Co. Hawthorne test tunnel in Hawthorne, Calif., on Dec. 18, 2018. Robyn Beck/Pool via Reuters
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Tesla Inc. posted strong quarterly results on Wednesday, with positive commentary from the management on the earnings call. But one particular data from its report signaled legacy automakers could be struggling with their transition away from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

What Happened

Tesla reported regulatory credits of $679 million for the first quarter, more than double from the previous quarter and a 31 percent jump from a year ago.

Regulatory credits are given by governments to automakers for producing green-energy vehicles, with a fixed amount of credits for each company to earn. Those deficient in the credits can buy from peers who have a surplus.