Elon Musk Holds Tesla All-Hands Meeting Amid Stock Decline and Brand Challenges
Tesla CEO Elon Musk Addresses Company Amid Stock Woes and Political Backlash
March 21, 2025 – Tesla (TSLA) CEO Elon Musk held an impromptu all-hands meeting on Thursday night, providing updates on product developments and addressing growing concerns over Tesla’s stock decline and brand image.
Tesla Stock Faces Challenges Amid Sales Decline
Tesla’s stock has been in a downward spiral since the start of the year, with declining sales in key markets like the U.S., Europe, and China. While the transition to the new Model Y SUV has been cited as a factor, Musk’s political affiliations, including his support for former President Donald Trump and European right-wing politicians, have also contributed to Tesla’s brand struggles. Protests against Tesla have increased, with incidents of vandalism at Tesla showrooms and Supercharger stations.
Musk Responds to Political Fallout and Brand Backlash
During the meeting, Musk acknowledged the growing criticism and negative media coverage surrounding Tesla. “If you read the news, it feels like Armageddon. I can’t walk past a TV without seeing a Tesla on fire,” he remarked, referring to reports of protesters setting Tesla vehicles on fire at dealerships.
Musk, along with Attorney General Pam Bondi, has categorized the attacks as domestic terrorism, with Bondi vowing legal action against the perpetrators. Despite the backlash, Musk remained optimistic about Tesla’s future and urged employees and investors to hold onto Tesla stock, emphasizing long-term growth potential.
Tesla’s Autonomous Future and Robotaxi Ambitions
Musk reiterated his vision for autonomous Teslas, predicting that regulatory approval for self-driving technology will be secured globally within five years. “Autonomous Teslas will be everywhere. In five years, we will have regulatory approval globally, and you will see them on every continent taking people on trips,” Musk stated. He also emphasized that nearly all Tesla vehicles, expected to surpass 10 million units next year, are already capable of full autonomy.
Tesla’s robotaxi plans center around the Cybercab, an autonomous vehicle set for production in 2026. Musk highlighted Tesla’s new “unboxed” assembly technique, designed to revolutionize vehicle production. “The line will move so fast that people can’t even get close to it. I believe it will eventually be able to produce a car in under five seconds,” Musk claimed.
Tesla’s Optimus Robot Nears Production
Musk also provided updates on Tesla’s Optimus humanoid robot, revealing that the first unit had been built at Tesla’s Fremont production facility. The robot will initially be used internally, with public sales expected in 2026.
“This year, we hope to produce around 5,000 Optimus robots, with a target of 50,000 by 2026,” Musk stated. “Since this is a completely new product, achieving half of our target would still be a success. Even 5,000 robots would be the size of a Roman legion.”
Model Y Updates and Stock Market Outlook
Musk expressed confidence that the Tesla Model Y, the company’s best-selling vehicle, would regain its status as the world’s top-selling car following recent updates. Despite market concerns, he encouraged investors to stay committed to Tesla stock.
“It’s difficult for stock market analysts—especially those focused on past performance—to envision a future where a 10 million-vehicle fleet has five to ten times its current usefulness. So what I’m saying is: hang on to your stock,” Musk emphasized.
His comments followed Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick’s recent endorsement of Tesla shares as a strong buy opportunity.
Wall Street Analysts React to Musk’s Leadership
Despite ongoing volatility, some Wall Street analysts expressed cautious optimism about Musk’s return to Tesla’s leadership. Wedbush analyst Dan Ives, who previously urged Musk to address Tesla’s challenges, described the all-hands meeting as a critical step toward restoring confidence among employees, shareholders, and partners.
“Challenges remain for Musk and Tesla, but last night’s meeting was a necessary first step in navigating this volatile period,” Ives noted in a research note. “Tesla’s brand is key, and it’s crucial to prevent the current crisis from becoming a lasting issue.”
Looking Ahead: Can Tesla Overcome Its Challenges?
While Tesla faces significant headwinds, Musk’s ambitious vision for autonomy, robotaxis, and robotics remains at the core of the company’s future. With key product launches on the horizon and a renewed focus on execution, Tesla’s ability to navigate current market challenges will be closely watched by investors and industry observers alike.