The Slow Newscast Car crash: Musk and Tesla
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May 20, 2025 Steve Levine, Editor of The Electric, dives into the tumultuous world of Tesla and its enigmatic leader, Elon Musk. Levine analyzes the plummeting stock prices following a meteoric rise tied to political events. He discusses how Musk's controversial actions have sparked consumer backlash, threatening Tesla's image. The conversation also covers Tesla's innovative technology, the competition from new players in the EV market, and Musk's recent strategic choices like the Cybertruck, highlighting the delicate balance between bold risks and market reality.
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Musk's Influence on Tesla's Value
- Tesla's stock soared due to Elon Musk's closeness to President Trump but fell sharply as Musk's public image worsened.
- This shows how CEO behavior and political ties can heavily impact company value.
Quentin Wilson's Tesla Experience
- Quentin Wilson recalls driving the first Tesla Roadster in 2010 and out-accelerating a Ferrari 328 on the M4.
- Early Tesla models impressed him with silent, quick performance, shaping his vision of the future of cars.
Musk's Shift Alienated Staff
- Kristen Kavanagh describes Musk's shift from supportive of diversity to adopting aggressive, divisive rhetoric, alienating employees.
- This internal change parallels Tesla's external brand and customer challenges.