The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has implemented modest staff reductions, a decision influenced by Elon Musk’s advisory group focused on government efficiency. These cuts follow ongoing NHTSA investigations into Tesla crashes and mandates for crash data reporting, initiatives that Musk has publicly criticized. The agency insists that these reductions will not compromise its commitment to enforcing safety regulations across all auto manufacturers. NHTSA maintains that its current staffing levels remain sufficient despite the cuts, exceeding those of four years prior.
Read More
Sheryl Crow is divesting from Tesla, donating the proceeds to NPR in protest of Elon Musk’s actions and President Trump’s attacks on the news organization. Crow’s decision reflects her disapproval of Musk’s involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and its efforts to drastically reduce federal agencies. This aligns with Trump’s broader agenda of cutting government spending and targeting news outlets critical of his administration. The singer’s action highlights the increasing politicization of corporate allegiances and the ongoing conflict between the Trump administration and the media.
Read More
During Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent U.S. visit, a meeting between Modi and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk occurred, the purpose of which remains somewhat unclear. While Modi stated they discussed space, technology, and innovation, Trump speculated the meeting was likely business-related, given Musk’s role as head of the newly formed U.S. Department of Government Efficiency. The meeting comes amidst Musk’s pursuit of expanding Starlink’s services into India, a goal currently facing regulatory and competitive hurdles. Further complicating matters are Tesla’s ongoing challenges in entering the Indian automotive market.
Read More
The State Department has halted plans to purchase $400 million worth of armored electric vehicles, previously listed as Teslas, for the 2025 fiscal year. This decision follows public scrutiny of the contract, particularly given Elon Musk’s dual roles as Tesla CEO and a White House official focused on government efficiency. The initial contract stemmed from a Biden administration initiative seeking private sector involvement in armored electric vehicle production, with Tesla being the sole respondent. The department will now initiate a broader solicitation process for vehicle manufacturers.
Read More
Tesla experienced a significant sales decline in major European markets, including a 59% drop in Germany—its lowest monthly total since July 2021. These slumps, also impacting France and the UK, coincide with CEO Elon Musk’s controversial political endorsements and actions, including support for a far-right German party and gestures interpreted as Nazi salutes. European leaders have expressed concern over Musk’s perceived attempts to influence elections for his own financial gain, further contributing to negative public perception. Decreasing Tesla sales are not limited to Europe, with California also witnessing a sustained decline in vehicle registrations.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker