Tesla revenue beats estimates as deliveries rebound, SpaceX merger talks emerge

Tesla reported $28.05 billion in third-quarter revenue, beating analyst forecasts of $27.88 billion, driven by a rebound in deliveries and energy storage sales, though profit margins were trimmed by AI and robotaxi investments. Deliveries hit 486,532 vehicles, exceeding the 461,100 expected, despite a 2% year-over-year decline. Sales outpaced production for a second straight quarter, cutting inventory by over 22,000 units. Model 3 and Model Y dominated sales, while other models, including Cybertruck, fell to 8,295 units. Tesla faces pressure from cheaper international rivals and ended Model S and X production to focus on Optimus robots. Investors are weighing a potential SpaceX merger, with Musk confirming exploratory committees. The company expanded its Cybercab fleet to over 300 vehicles and launched unsupervised robotaxis in Florida.