EVs are shaping the future of transportation, and two of the biggest names in the space are Tesla (TSLA) and Rivian Automotive (RIVN). While Tesla is a well-known leader with years of experience and global reach, Rivian is a newer player gaining attention with its bold plans and unique electric trucks. In this article, we’ll compare Tesla and Rivian to help you decide which EV stock might be the smarter buy for the future.
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TSLA stock surged over 65% in the past 12 months, fueled by strong investor confidence. However, it has dropped about 20% year-to-date due to missed revenue estimates and concerns around CEO Elon Musk’s political affiliations. Meanwhile, Rivian shares have fallen more than 15% over the same 12-month period, reflecting ongoing hurdles for the young EV maker.
Tesla Stays on Top in EV Popularity, but Financial Woes Persist
Tesla remains the most popular EV brand, thanks to its strong global presence, innovative technology, and loyal customer base. While long-term investor confidence remains strong, the company is struggling to maintain both market leadership and consistent financial performance.
Notably, Tesla missed its second-quarter revenue and profit targets, with automotive sales falling 16% and fewer vehicles sold. Musk warned that the next few quarters could be tough due to higher tariffs and the upcoming end of the U.S. EV tax credit. Investors are staying cautious as the company deals with changing demand and new regulations.
Besides making EVs, Tesla is focused on ride-hailing, self-driving, and robotics. However, investors are finding it harder to understand the company’s overall direction.
Rivian’s Growth Stalls
Rivian’s rapid rise in the EV market has hit a speed bump, as shifting U.S. policies take a toll. Like many EV-only manufacturers, Rivian is feeling the effects of the Trump administration’s rollback of pro-EV incentives under its “big, beautiful bill.” The company is now facing slowing growth, weaker-than-expected earnings, and growing investor concerns as it adjusts its strategy amid shifting market conditions.
Earlier this week, the company reported Q2 results and warned of tougher times ahead. Rivian also slashed its full-year EBITDA forecast to a loss of $2.0–$2.25 billion, deeper than its earlier estimate of $1.7–$1.9 billion and worse than Wall Street’s $1.88 billion loss projection.
Additionally, analysts warn that the loss of federal EV tax credits could dampen demand for its upcoming R2 SUV, potentially forcing price cuts and further deepening its already negative profit margins. Overall, analysts generally remain optimistic about Rivian’s long-term prospects. Notably, Wedbush’s 4.5-star-rated Dan Ives called Rivian a “work in progress,” as the company maintained its 2025 delivery forecast but tweaked its EBITDA target to navigate ongoing economic headwinds.
TSLA vs. RIVN: Which EV Stock Offers Higher Upside, According to Analysts?
Using TipRanks’ Stock Comparison Tool, we compared TSLA and RIVN to see which EV stock analysts favor. Both stocks carry a Hold rating. Rivian’s price target of $14.92 suggests a potential 24% upside, while Tesla’s target of $305.40 implies a 4% downside from current levels.
Conclusion
Both Rivian and Tesla offer strong long-term potential but appeal to different investors. Tesla’s proven dominance and diversified operations make it a stable, innovation-led choice. Rivian, though riskier, is gaining traction and may offer greater upside for growth-focused investors.