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Tesla beats on earnings and sales even as auto revenue declines
On Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Tesla reported third-quarter revenue of $28.05 billion, surpassing analysts' $27.88 billion estimate as vehicle deliveries rebounded and energy storage sales grew.
Deliveries reached 486,532 vehicles during the third quarter, exceeding market expectations of about 461,100 units, while production totaled 464,391 vehicles, reducing inventory by more than 22,000 units for a second consecutive quarter.
Grid-Scale battery demand from data centers and renewable projects fueled Tesla's energy segment growth, while the company halted Model S and Model X production at its Fremont facility to convert lines for industrial-scale Optimus manufacturing.
CEO Elon Musk confirmed on Tuesday that both Tesla and SpaceX appointed special committees to examine a potential merger, as Tesla reported positive cash flow of $1.53 billion, defying expectations of $4.92 billion cash burn.
Tariff policies pose greater risks to Tesla's energy operations than its automotive line, the company warned, while international competitors introducing lower-priced alternatives continue pressuring the automotive division amid expiring tax credit headwinds.
U.S. electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla posted a net fall in profit in the third quarter but focused on artificial intelligence and its autonomy projects to accelerate its