
This article does not constitute investment advice. The author discloses no positions in any of the stocks referenced herein.
Tesla’s Market Dynamics Amid Political Changes
Tesla has emerged as a focal point for stock price target upgrades lately. This surge is largely attributed to Elon Musk’s strong ties to the incoming Trump administration, which is expected to favor regulations that benefit autonomous vehicles. However, Musk’s political entanglements might introduce challenges, particularly as Trump’s administration has historically held a skeptical view toward electric vehicles (EVs), potentially impacting Tesla’s traditional automotive business.
Elon Musk’s Political Influence
In a significant display of influence, Elon Musk is slated to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) alongside Vivek Ramaswamy in the new administration. This move aims to streamline the expansive US government operations, highlighting Musk’s growing stature as a political figure.
The Speaker of the House need not be a member of Congress. . .
Nothing would disrupt the swamp more than electing Elon Musk. . . think about it. . . nothing’s impossible. (not to mention the joy at seeing the collective establishment, aka ‘uniparty,’ lose their ever-lovin’…
— Rand Paul (@RandPaul) December 19, 2024
Controversial Calls for Leadership
Amidst this political backdrop, Senator Rand Paul’s recent tweet advocating for Musk’s elevation to the role of US House Speaker sparked discussions. While this notion has gained some traction, industry veterans like Tesla analyst Gary Black have expressed skepticism.
We view KY Senator Rand Paul’s tweet yesterday suggesting Elon Musk be named U.S. Speaker of the House as a non-starter. Elon already functions as President-elect Trump’s “first friend,” and spending a huge chunk of time in dysfunctional Washington would be viewed negatively by… https://t.co/1EGctuD7qI
— Gary Black (@garyblack00) December 20, 2024
Implications for Tesla’s Core Business
Black cautions that such a political role would distract Musk and likely require him to reduce his involvement with Tesla, thereby impacting stock stability. Furthermore, the incoming Trump administration has not shown strong support for EVs, which raises concerns about Tesla’s market position.
For instance, Trump has indicated plans to eliminate the $7,500 federal EV tax credit. Although some analysts believe this move could fortuitously diminish Tesla’s competition, it would simultaneously hinder Tesla’s ability to launch its new Model Q (or Model 2) at an appealing price point below $30,000.
Deliveries next year won’t be anywhere near 2,285,000 units, as you estimate in your table. It will be much less.
The $7,500 tax credit in the US will soon be canceled. The shorter Model Y (aka Model 2) enters production in early July 2025 and will start at $37,490 for the…
— Troy Teslike (@TroyTeslike) December 20, 2024
Future Model Projections
Analyst Troy Teslike, recognized for his accurate delivery predictions, projects that the new Model Q will retail starting at $37,490 with annual deliveries estimated to plateau at around 1.8 million units for 2025.
$TSLA sales down 40% YOY in Europe and Model Y no longer top selling car in Europe (surpassed by Dacia) pic.twitter.com/xzRSNj01Bn
— SixSigmaCapital (@SixSigmaCapital) December 19, 2024
Challenges in the Global Market
Tesla faces mounting challenges not only from an unfriendly political climate in Washington but also from intensifying competition in both the European market, where its sales have dipped by 40% year-on-year, and in China, facing rival offerings that threaten its dominance.
Companies will pay Tesla so much $$$ to provide their employees transportation to work. At $0.50/mile vs. Uber’s $3.00/mile, a 20 mile round trip would cost $10 per day vs $60.
The employer wins because their employees are more likely to come into work and more productive on…
— Xander Johnson (@XanderBJohnson) December 16, 2024
Strategic Focus on Autonomy
Despite these hurdles, Musk remains focused on Tesla’s future in autonomous driving technology, alongside the development of the highly anticipated Optimus humanoid robot. Recent updates indicate that Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) version 13.2 is progressing well, nearing performance benchmarks set by competitors like Waymo.
*TESLA IN TALKS WITH CITY OF AUSTIN TO DEPLOY DRIVERLESS FLEETS – BLOOMBERG
Email records show Tesla employees have been in contact with the City of Austin’s autonomous vehicle task force since as early as May of this year, establishing safety guidelines for a… pic.twitter.com/yydh0kTmNL
— Stock Talk (@stocktalkweekly) December 19, 2024
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