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Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, foresees significant success for Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers beyond China’s borders. While speaking during Tesla’s earnings call on Wednesday, Musk acknowledged the intense competition Tesla faces from Chinese EV companies, stating, “The Chinese car companies are the most competitive car companies in the world. So, I think they will have significant success outside of China depending on what kind of tariffs or trade barriers are established.”
Musk went on to express a bold prediction, stating, “Frankly, I think, if there are not trade barriers established, they will pretty much demolish most other companies in the world.” This assessment comes as Chinese EV makers expand aggressively into global markets, with companies like BYD, Nio, and Xpeng making inroads in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
BYD, which outsold Tesla in the fourth quarter in terms of battery-powered cars, has been gaining traction globally. Chinese startups like Nio and Xpeng have also ventured into international markets, challenging traditional auto firms. The European Commission is currently investigating subsidies provided to Chinese EV manufacturers, which could potentially lead to higher tariffs on their products in Europe.
Musk’s positive comments about Chinese EV companies are not new. Last year, he referred to them as “the most competitive in the world” and predicted that a Chinese company is likely to be the second-largest EV seller globally after Tesla.
While Tesla faces its own set of challenges, including earnings that missed expectations and a projected slowdown in 2024, Musk’s recognition of the prowess of Chinese EV makers signals a shifting landscape in the global electric vehicle market. As trade barriers and tariffs remain uncertain, the competition among EV manufacturers, particularly those from China, is expected to intensify.