Elon Musk is a name synonymous with innovation, especially when it comes to electric vehicles. However, many people may be surprised to learn that he did not start Tesla. Upon joining the company in 2008, Musk was actually the fourth CEO, stepping in after Tesla was founded in 2003 by Martin Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning. While Musk has significantly reshaped Tesla and its offerings, the original vision belonged to these co-founders.
The relationship between Musk and Tesla’s early executives has been tumultuous. Tensions with Eberhard culminated in a lawsuit in 2009, resulting in a settlement that allowed Musk to call himself a co-founder, shared with Eberhard, Tarpenning, JB Straubel, and Ian Wright. Recent conversations have reignited old conflicts, particularly concerning Tesla’s future direction.
What Did Eberhard Say About Tesla’s Recent Changes?
During a conversation with EV YouTuber Kim Java, Eberhard openly criticized Musk for eliminating Tesla’s low-end car program, referencing the Cybertruck in a disparaging way. Eberhard stated, “I am disappointed that Tesla canceled its low-end car program because that’s what the world needs—not a truck that looks like a dumpster.” His comments sparked conversations around the company’s commitment to affordability.
Are Affordable Electric Cars Still in Tesla’s Plans?
Despite recent setbacks, including Musk’s previous announcement about shelving a planned $25,000 electric vehicle (around €23,500), Tesla claims to still be pursuing affordable car options. A shareholder update suggested that Tesla would begin building prototypes for a more affordable model this year, with full production slated for the second half of 2025. However, the pricing for these new models remains unclear.
Why Was the $25,000 EV Project Canceled?
Many wondered about the cancellation of the anticipated $25,000 EV. Musk denied the reports, insisting that the project was still alive, even though internal communications indicated otherwise. Some senior Tesla managers expressed confusion over Musk’s dismissal of the situation, as he reaffirmed that the project was indeed dead. This inconsistency raises questions about the company’s future as it pivots towards self-driving technologies.
How Do Others View Musk’s Contributions?
In the midst of his criticisms, Eberhard has acknowledged Musk’s role in transforming Tesla into a lucrative enterprise. He noted, “I’m glad to see my baby surviving,” while praising Musk’s leadership at SpaceX, mentioning that he might not adequately credit the pivotal role played by his team. This perspective offers a nuanced view of Musk’s influence in the tech industry.
What Common Critiques Have Been Made of the Cybertruck?
The Cybertruck has attracted its share of skepticism and ridicule since its unveiling. Terms such as “the stupidest vehicle ever designed” have circulated widely. The vehicle’s polarizing design has even inspired Cybertruck owners to form a Facebook support group to cope with public backlash. This response reflects the passionate responses to Musk’s ambitious ventures.
As the automotive industry evolves, the debate over Tesla’s direction continues. The discussions between Musk and the company’s co-founders highlight the underlying tensions in balancing innovation with market demand.
Curious about more insights into the world of electric vehicles and Tesla’s transformative journey? Don’t stop here; continue exploring related content on Moyens I/O.