Tesla sold more than 480,000 electric vehicles in the third quarter, a second consecutive strong quarter for the company following a challenging start to the year. The impressive sales figures topped even the most optimistic projections, marking a significant rebound from the previous quarter.

However, the U.S. market remains a thorn in Tesla’s side, with sales down nearly 20% year-over-year, according to Cox Automotive. This decline is partly due to the absence of new consumer models, except for the Cybertruck, which has struggled to gain traction. Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, has shifted his attention to other projects, such as the Cybercab, an autonomous two-seater vehicle, and the development of the Optimus humanoid robot, despite delays.

Despite the challenges in the U.S., Tesla is experiencing growth in Europe, where electric vehicles are more widely adopted, and in China, where the company continues to see strong sales. Tesla is expanding its factory in Germany to meet the demand, and is also exploring new markets like Japan, Australia, and Lithuania.

Other initiatives, such as the second-generation Roadster and the electric big rig, the Tesla Semi, are underway, though their commercial timelines remain uncertain. Tesla has secured up to $30 billion in new lines of credit to support these ambitious projects, suggesting a robust future for the electric vehicle giant.