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10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2018

Tesla, Inc. Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Mar 31, 2018

Filed May 7, 2018For Securities:TSLA

Summary

Tesla's Q1 2018 10-Q filing reveals a period of significant investment and operational challenges, particularly with the Model 3 production ramp. Despite a substantial increase in total revenues, up 26% year-over-year to $3.41 billion, driven by strong automotive sales growth and a near doubling of energy generation and storage revenues, the company reported a widening net loss. This was largely due to increased cost of revenues, especially within the automotive segment, and higher operating expenses, particularly in R&D and SG&A. The adoption of ASC 606 (new revenue standard) also impacted revenue recognition, leading to reclassifications and adjustments. Key financial takeaways include a substantial increase in inventory and a decrease in cash and cash equivalents compared to the prior quarter. The company continues to manage a significant debt load. Management highlights ongoing efforts to overcome production bottlenecks, particularly for Model 3, and reaffirms production targets while acknowledging the inherent difficulties in forecasting. Investments in capital expenditures remain substantial, focused on production capacity and infrastructure expansion.

Financial Statements
Beta

Key Highlights

  • 1Total revenues increased by 26% to $3.41 billion, driven by automotive sales and energy generation/storage segments.
  • 2Automotive sales revenue grew 26% year-over-year, boosted by Model 3 deliveries and the adoption of ASC 606.
  • 3Energy generation and storage revenue nearly doubled, increasing by 92% due to increased deliveries and the South Australia battery project.
  • 4The company reported a significant net loss of $784.6 million for the quarter, a substantial increase from the prior year's loss of $397.2 million.
  • 5Cost of revenues increased significantly (46%), outpacing revenue growth, leading to a lower gross profit and margin (13% vs. 25% in Q1 2017).
  • 6Operating expenses increased, with R&D up 14% and SG&A up 14%, reflecting continued investment in new products and expansion.
  • 7Cash used in operating activities increased substantially to $398.4 million, compared to $69.8 million in the prior year's quarter.
  • 8Total debt remained substantial, with over $10.4 billion in principal outstanding as of March 31, 2018.

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