On the other hand, early EV optimists assumed we'd be much further along by now. And while sales are up, the rate of growth is slowing, driven by affordability constraints, trade friction and shifting government incentives. The broad trend: Funding to EV-related startups reflects a similar mix of optimism and restraint. Investors are backing big rounds for a handful of upstart brands like customizable pickup truck maker Slate Auto and Rivian micromobility spin-out Also. Yet funding remains far below prior peaks and exit activity appears muted. The numbers: Companies in Crunchbase's electric vehicle category are on track to see higher investment this year relative to last. Around $3.6 billion has gone to companies in the space so far in 2026, spread across about 50 rounds. The largest round tied to the EV space this year went to Wayve, which isn't an electric vehicle brand but rather a developer of autonomous driving technology that has been tested on EVs. The London-based company...
learn more
