Musk Faces Challenges as Tesla Shares Decline
Tesla CEO Elon Musk was seen observing President Donald Trump addressing the media outside the White House in Washington, D.C., on March 11, 2025. During Musk’s two-month stay in Washington, D.C., Tesla’s stock has suffered a significant drop of over 40%.
Protests and Vandalism Erupt Against Tesla
A series of protests and campaigns targeting Tesla, Elon Musk, and his initiatives within the Trump administration have gained momentum globally. This unrest has led to incidents of vandalism and arson directed at Tesla electric vehicles, showrooms, and charging stations across the U.S. and Europe.
Musk Reassures Tesla Employees
In a recent all-hands meeting with Tesla employees, Musk addressed these challenges, encouraging staff to remain optimistic and hold onto their stock. Following his remarks, Tesla shares closed up over 5%, reaching $248.71.
Musk Discusses Future of Autonomous Vehicles
“It’s challenging for the stock market, particularly for those who have a short-term view,” Musk stated, promoting his vision for self-driving cars. He expressed confidence in the transformative potential of an extensive fleet of autonomous vehicles, asserting that their capabilities would be incomparable to anything in the past.
Sales Decline Amid Rising Trade Issues
In the wake of recent trade uncertainties, Tesla has seen a decrease in vehicle sales in Europe, parts of the U.S., and China. This situation follows the introduction of new tariffs on materials and goods from Canada, Mexico, and China, essential for Tesla’s supply chain. Reports indicate that Tesla owners are trading in their electric vehicles at unprecedented rates.
Musk Highlights Tesla’s Technology and Future Plans
During the meeting, Musk emphasized Tesla’s innovative technology and its promising future. He highlighted the popularity of the Model Y and its expected status as the best-selling vehicle globally again this year, while also showcasing the Cybertruck’s recent achievement of being the top-selling electric pickup truck despite a recent recall.
Introduction of Cybercab and Humanoid Robots
Musk shared plans for the upcoming Cybercab — a vehicle designed without a steering wheel or brakes — and discussed advancements in Tesla’s humanoid robot, the Optimus. He assured that both products would be produced in Austin, Texas. He mentioned that Tesla’s Optimus robot, despite being in the early stages of development, is already considered the most sophisticated humanoid robot available, with plans to eventually offer it to Tesla employees first.
