The last two CEOs of Amazon are:
1. **Andy Jassy** (Current CEO)
2. **Jeff Bezos** (Previous CEO)
Blog
-
Twitter's Recent Leadership: The Last Two CEOs
The last two CEOs of Twitter (now X) have been **Parag Agrawal** and **Elon Musk**.
Parag Agrawal served as CEO from November 2021 until Elon Musk's acquisition of the company in October 2022. Elon Musk then became the CEO following the acquisition.
-
J.J. McCarthy Leads Vikings To 27-24 Victory Over Bears In NFL Debut
In a thrilling season opener on Monday night, Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy showcased resilience and poise, leading his team to a 27-24 comeback victory over the Chicago Bears. Despite a challenging start, McCarthy's performance highlighted his potential as the Vikings' new leader under center.
McCarthy's debut was marked by an early setback when he threw a pick-six in the third quarter, allowing the Bears to extend their lead to 17-6. However, the rookie quarterback remained unfazed, orchestrating a series of successful drives in the fourth quarter. He completed 13 of 20 passes for 143 yards, throwing two touchdown passes and adding a 14-yard rushing touchdown with under three minutes remaining, which proved to be the game-winner.
The Vikings' offense was further bolstered by wide receiver Justin Jefferson, who recorded four receptions for 44 yards and a touchdown. Running back Aaron Jones also made a significant impact, contributing 44 receiving yards and a touchdown. Their combined efforts were instrumental in the Vikings' late-game surge.
On the defensive side, Minnesota's unit stepped up when it mattered most, making six consecutive third-down stops in the fourth quarter. This defensive resilience prevented the Bears from capitalizing on their opportunities and allowed the Vikings to maintain their slim lead.
For the Bears, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams demonstrated promise in his NFL debut. He threw for 210 yards and a touchdown, adding 58 rushing yards and a score. Despite his efforts, the Bears' offense struggled with penalties and late-game mistakes, which ultimately cost them the game.
The Vikings' victory not only marked a successful start to their season but also provided a glimpse into the promising future with McCarthy at the helm. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how McCarthy continues to develop and lead the Vikings.
-
Electric Vehicle Industry Faces Uncertainty Amid Policy Shifts And Market Dynamics
The electric vehicle industry is navigating a period of significant uncertainty as policy changes and market dynamics influence its trajectory. The recent election of President Donald Trump has introduced potential challenges for the sector, particularly concerning federal tax incentives and emissions standards. Trump’s transition team has proposed rolling back support for EVs, including eliminating the $7,500 tax credit for EV purchases and revisiting emissions and fuel economy standards. These proposed changes aim to bolster the fossil-fuel car industry and address national security concerns related to critical mineral supplies from China.
Despite these policy shifts, the automotive industry remains committed to the transition toward electric vehicles. Since 2021, automakers have invested at least $160 billion in EV development, signaling a strong dedication to electrification. Companies like General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis continue to prioritize EV production, focusing on long-term objectives despite potential policy changes. This commitment underscores the industry’s belief in the future of electric mobility, regardless of the political landscape.
Internationally, the EV market is experiencing varied growth. In China, EVs accounted for 50% of new car sales in July 2024, driven by domestic companies like BYD. Europe and the United States have also seen substantial growth, with the global EV market expanding by 25% year-over-year, reaching an estimated 15.2 million EVs sold worldwide by November 2024. Norway continues to lead with 90% of new cars being electric.
In the United States, Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3 remain the best-selling EVs, with Tesla maintaining a 17% global EV market share. However, the company’s dominance is being challenged by other automakers like GM, Ford, and Honda, which are offering more diverse and affordable options. Despite increased competition, Tesla remains the most valuable auto company globally, with a market value of $1.4 trillion.
As the EV industry continues to evolve, it faces a complex landscape shaped by policy decisions, market competition, and technological advancements. Stakeholders across the automotive sector are closely monitoring these developments, striving to adapt and thrive in an increasingly electrified future.
-
Recent Developments In The Electric Vehicle Industry
The electric vehicle industry is experiencing significant shifts, marked by evolving consumer sentiments, policy changes, and technological advancements. Recent reports highlight these dynamics, offering insights into the current state and future trajectory of EV adoption.
A recent survey by Shell indicates a decline in consumer willingness to transition from combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles, with Europe experiencing a more significant drop than the United States. The survey, which included 15,000 drivers from Britain, China, Germany, and the U.S., identified vehicle cost as the primary barrier to adoption, as EVs remain up to 30% more expensive than traditional cars. In Europe, only 41% of respondents expressed intent to switch to EVs, down from 48% the previous year, while the U.S. saw a smaller decline from 34% to 31%. Additionally, dissatisfaction with public EV charging infrastructure persists, with only 17% of European drivers considering it a good value, compared to 69% in China and 71% in the U.S.
In the United States, legislative actions are influencing the EV landscape. Senate Republicans have introduced a tax and budget bill aimed at ending the $7,500 tax credit for new electric vehicles 180 days after the bill's enactment, and immediately terminating the credit for leased EVs made outside North America. The proposal marks a significant policy reversal from the Biden administration’s efforts to support EV adoption and reduce emissions. The bill also seeks to eliminate the $4,000 tax credit for used EVs within 90 days of its passage. Additionally, leased EVs would need to meet stringent North American assembly and content requirements to qualify for any remaining benefits.
Consumer advocacy groups are responding to these policy shifts. Consumer Reports has urged Congress to reject a proposed federal fee on electric vehicles, which could charge EV owners $250 to $500 annually to fund road repairs. The consumer watchdog group argued the fees are excessive, amounting to three to seven times more than what gasoline vehicle owners pay in federal gas taxes. Republican Senator Bernie Moreno supports increasing the EV fee, and the proposal is part of a broader tax and budget bill approved by the House in May.
Technological advancements continue to drive the EV market forward. The 2025 Dodge Charger EV Scat Pack represents a bold evolution for the classic muscle car, combining traditional aesthetics with modern electric performance. Equipped with a 100.5 kWh battery and dual-motor all-wheel drive, it delivers 630 horsepower and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds. The car offers an estimated range of 241 miles but proved capable of reaching an efficiency of 3.5 mi/kWh during testing, suggesting a potential range of over 300 miles. Unique features like customizable drive settings, a PowerShot mode boosting horsepower temporarily, and fake engine noises through an 18-speaker sound system contribute to an engaging, muscle-car-like experience.
In summary, the electric vehicle industry is navigating a complex landscape of consumer behavior, policy decisions, and technological innovations. While challenges persist, the sector's resilience and adaptability continue to shape its evolution in the automotive market.
-
China&039;s Surge In Electric Vehicle Exports Raises Concerns In Brazil
China's leading electric vehicle manufacturer, BYD, is rapidly expanding its presence in Brazil by exporting tens of thousands of affordable electric and hybrid cars to a market where green vehicles are still emerging. In early 2025, Brazil imported approximately 22,000 Chinese vehicles, with total imports projected to reach 200,000 units this year, accounting for 8% of Brazil's light-vehicle registrations.
This influx has raised alarms among Brazilian automakers and labor unions, who fear potential job losses and diminished local investments. In response, they are urging the government to expedite a planned tariff increase—from 10% back up to 35% on EVs—to discourage imports and promote domestic production.
BYD had initially planned to commence local production by converting a former Ford plant in Bahia. However, labor violations have delayed this timeline until late 2026. Similarly, another Chinese automaker, GWM, has postponed its local production plans. Critics argue that these companies are not fostering a local supply chain or creating substantial value domestically.
The Brazilian government faces the challenge of balancing its green objectives with industrial protectionism, especially as Chinese imports dominate over 80% of its EV market. This situation is particularly pressing as Brazil prepares to host the COP30 climate summit. While local production plans are progressing slowly, Chinese imports continue to drive Brazil's EV transition.
In related developments, the U.S. Senate parliamentarian recently blocked Senate Republicans from using a budget reconciliation process to overturn President Biden's stringent vehicle emissions rules. These regulations aim to reduce tailpipe emissions by nearly 50% by 2032 and significantly increase EV sales. The decision means Republicans would need at least 60 votes in the 100-seat Senate to reverse the regulations, rather than a simple majority.
Additionally, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 7-2 in favor of fuel producers challenging California's vehicle emissions standards under a federal air pollution law. The Court overturned a lower court decision that had dismissed the lawsuit due to lack of legal standing. This ruling allows fuel industry groups to pursue their claims that the EPA overstepped its authority, potentially harming them financially.
These developments underscore the complex interplay between international trade, domestic policies, and environmental objectives in the evolving EV market.
-
China’s Surge In Electric Vehicle Exports Raises Concerns In Brazil
China's leading electric vehicle manufacturer, BYD, is rapidly expanding its presence in Brazil by exporting tens of thousands of affordable electric and hybrid cars to a market where green vehicles are still emerging. In early 2025, Brazil imported approximately 22,000 Chinese vehicles, with total imports projected to reach 200,000 by the end of the year, accounting for 8% of the country's light-vehicle registrations.
This influx has raised alarms among Brazilian automakers and labor unions, who fear potential job losses and diminished local investments. In response, they are urging the government to expedite a planned tariff increase—from 10% back up to 35% on EVs—to discourage imports and promote domestic production.
BYD had initially planned to commence local production by converting a former Ford plant in Bahia. However, labor violations have delayed this timeline until late 2026. Similarly, another Chinese automaker, GWM, has postponed its local production plans. Critics argue that these companies are not fostering a local supply chain or creating substantial value domestically.
The Brazilian government faces the challenge of balancing its green objectives with industrial protectionism, especially as Chinese imports dominate over 80% of the nation's EV market. This situation is particularly pressing as Brazil prepares to host the COP30 climate summit. While local production plans are progressing slowly, Chinese imports continue to drive Brazil's EV transition.
In related developments, the U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled 7-2 in favor of fuel producers challenging California's vehicle emissions standards under a federal air pollution law. This decision allows industry groups to pursue claims that the Environmental Protection Agency overstepped its authority, potentially impacting the future of stringent emissions regulations in the U.S.
Additionally, a recent survey by Shell indicates that consumer willingness to switch from combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles is declining, with Europe experiencing a more significant drop than the United States. The survey highlights vehicle cost as the primary barrier to adoption, as EVs remain up to 30% more expensive than traditional cars.
These developments underscore the complex dynamics of the global EV market, where international trade policies, local production capabilities, and consumer preferences are continually evolving.