Elon Musk has just finished addressing the Automotive News World Congress, where he touched on a number of interesting points. Although our miniscule budget ebola quarantine status didn’t allow us to be in the room, the people that were on hand have been generous in their sharing of the highlights on Twitter. Thus, we bring the salient bits to you, dear reader.
- Sales in China are down. This is possibly the biggest news from the speech and likely responsible for the after-hours stock price plunge (TSLA is down to $188.88 as of this writing). Though he didn’t give figures, Elon said the slowdown was due to current state of the Tesla SuperCharger network in that country. He expects the situation to improve as charging becomes more ubiquitous.
- In response to question, Musk must again reiterate that the Government loan it received didn’t “save” Tesla, the Daimler investment did. Also, the amount was much smaller than other OEMs received.
- Model S in sold out for 2015. Will sell every Model X it can make.
- Model X, with center of gravity like a sportscar and utility of minivan, will be start production this summer.
- Tesla will sell millions of cars a year by 2025.
- While making sounds about possible compromises on franchise laws, says must have solid store foundation before going 3rd party sales route.
- Tesla would be profitable if it weren’t for high level of reinvestment on automation. WIll show profit when selling 500k per year, maybe 2020.
- Auto industry still not passionate enough about EVs. Tesla success is measured by how other automakers follow.
- Going to Texas tomorrow to push for retail stores. Didn’t speak to legislators enough in past.
- “Significant” increase in orders for Model S from Europe and US in 2014. No yearly sales number.
- Not looking for new partnership with other automaker at present.
- Gives hint about announcement coming that could revolutionize auto service.
- Calls for a carbon tax.
Keep this going please, great job!|