In a recent meeting with employees, Tesla CEO Elon Musk encouraged his team to retain their shares, highlighting a future vision that includes Optimus humanoid robots, which could become the company’s best-selling product. This message, shared on the social platform X, comes amid challenges for Tesla shares, affected by declining sales, especially in Europe and China, and public criticism due to Musk’s association with former President Donald Trump. Despite a 42% drop in share value this year, Musk emphasized the company’s strong fundamentals and long-term potential, seeking to reinforce investor confidence.
Musk pointed out significant Tesla advances, such as the possibility of the Model Y becoming the world’s best-selling vehicle again and improvements in Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology. Additionally, he detailed the company’s goal to produce 5,000 humanoid robots this year and significantly increase this number by 2026, anticipating that these robots’ capabilities will revolutionize productivity and personal assistance. Musk expressed confidence in Tesla’s unique ability to mass-produce intelligent robots, predicting that Optimus will become the most significant product in history.
Tesla Excluded from Vancouver Auto Show Due to Safety Concerns Related to Protests
The Vancouver International Auto Show has decided to exclude Tesla’s exhibition due to safety concerns stemming from ongoing protests against Elon Musk. Incidents of Tesla vehicles being set on fire during these demonstrations have been reported in Canada and the United States. Despite offering Tesla the option to withdraw voluntarily, ultimately their exclusion was decided to ensure the safety of attendees and staff. The protests are motivated by Musk’s political affiliations and controversial statements, including his support for a far-right party in Germany and disparaging comments about Canada. Demonstrations have targeted Tesla dealerships nationwide, resulting in arson and vandalism. Additionally, activists have disseminated personal information of Tesla vehicle owners online. The auto show, which includes participation from major manufacturers, continues without Tesla, which initially planned to exhibit its Model 3, Model Y, and Cybertruck models.
Five Key Takeaways from Elon Musk’s Unexpected Meeting with Tesla Employees
In a surprise meeting with Tesla employees, Elon Musk addressed the recent drop in the company’s share value, urging employees to maintain their stakes despite a decrease of more than 50% from December highs. Musk highlighted advances in autonomous driving and robotics, and underscored plans for Tesla’s new Cybercab line, with the goal of significantly scaling production through innovative manufacturing processes. He also mentioned the planned production of 5,000 Optimus robots this year. The meeting focused on company operations and future product developments, avoiding political discussions. Musk acknowledged his tight schedule, managing multiple roles across his various companies and his involvement with the White House DOGE office, highlighting his commitment to productivity and leadership despite challenges.
Tesla Faces Recall of Nearly 50,000 Cybertrucks Due to Defective Body Parts
Tesla has issued a recall in the United States of nearly 50,000 Cybertrucks because body parts could detach, presenting a safety risk. In the 46,000 affected vehicles, there is a possibility that a body part, located laterally above the door, may detach. According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this increases the risk of accidents. This is not the first recall for the Cybertruck; problems with defective screens, stuck accelerator pedals, and faulty windshield wipers were previously reported. Tesla vehicles were subject to recalls more frequently in the first three quarters of 2024, accounting for 21% of all recalls in the U.S. Most issues were resolved through software updates. Despite a decrease in electric vehicle sales, Tesla announced last year the reduction of more than 10% of its worldwide jobs. However, the company plans to hire 300 temporary workers for permanent contracts at its Grünheide plant.
Elon Musk Unveils Tesla Robotaxi: An Autonomous Vehicle Without Steering Wheel or Pedals
Last Thursday, Elon Musk revealed the anticipated Tesla robotaxi, an autonomous vehicle that requires no human intervention. This futuristic car is expected to be available on the market by 2027, almost a decade after his initial promise about an autonomous vehicle. The event, titled “We, Robot,” took place at Warner Brothers studios in Los Angeles, paying homage to Isaac Asimov’s work, “I, Robot.” Tesla’s robotaxi lacks a steering wheel and pedals, with an estimated cost below $30,000. Musk emphasized that this vehicle will use wireless induction charging and will be 10 to 20 times safer than human-driven cars. Although few technical details were offered, the presentation showed doors with a design reminiscent of the iconic DeLorean from “Back to the Future.” Musk also mentioned that Tesla already has 50 units ready to begin testing in Texas and California.
