The richest man in the world says and does what he wants. And often, it’s contentious and provocative.
How much blame does Musk deserve for Tesla’s troubles? Experts say the CEO’s behavior probably turns off some potential customers, but bigger problems are buffeting his company. And with other car makers rapidly broadening electric options, his divisive persona could inflict heavier damage down the line, they say.
Daniel Ives, senior equity analyst at Wedbush Securities, said “Musk’s antics” have had a significant effect on U.S consumers’ car-buying behavior. While Musk may be tarnishing Tesla’s reputation among some consumers, “reputation is really about product and how reliable and or desirable that product is,” Pozner said.“Most consumers, even conscientious consumers, often don’t actually make their purchasing decision based on the politics of the head of the company,” Kim said.
Rafael Alhambra of Sunnyvale charges his Tesla at the Target parking lot on Coleman Avenue in San Jose, Calif., Thursday, April 18, 2024. , but “they have become the party of division & hate, so I can no longer support them and will vote Republican.” Musk in JanuaryCiting fake news, obstruction, Brazil judge orders Musk probe