Things don’t seem to be going well for Tesla at the moment, as the company sold more than 1.7 million electric vehicles in 2024, slightly lower than the number recorded in 2023.
But sales figures aren’t the only problem. Other issues have led to a wave of protests and criticism, due to the controversial positions taken by its CEO, Elon Musk, which are harming Tesla and the other companies he owns.
The current problem facing Tesla is defects in its popular Cybertruck. The company has launched a widespread recall of more than 46,000 trucks of this model, which were produced between November 2023 and February 27, 2024.
The problem with the Cybertruck is the possibility of the stainless steel exterior panel detaching while driving, a defect that could endanger the driver and increase the risk of accidents.
According to Reuters, the British news agency reported that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued an alert and notified Tesla of the owner’s complaint on February 21st, alleging that his vehicle’s chassis plate had become loose.
Based on the same report, Tesla, the manufacturer of the Cybertruck, immediately opened an investigation and identified at least 151 complaints related to this issue. No accidents were reported, but the American company preferred to move quickly to remedy the situation.
Tesla plans to replace the defective chassis plates on the affected vehicles free of charge, and owners of affected Cybertrucks will be contacted by customer service in the United States.
The Cybertruck recall represents a significant blow to Tesla, which is already going through a difficult period. Its stock has lost nearly 50% of its value since the beginning of the year, due to increased competition among electric vehicle manufacturers, particularly Chinese ones, and the Cybertruck’s successive setbacks.
When the Cybertruck was announced, it was promoted as a revolutionary vehicle and a technological masterpiece. What attracted people most was its unique and exotic appearance.
Demand for the truck was also fueled by Elon Musk’s bizarre and controversial comments. Ultimately, however, it appears the truck is not up to scratch.
Tesla’s growing competition with Chinese giant BYD will exacerbate its problems and negatively impact its overall performance. If the American company fails to address and resolve its issues, particularly with its Cybertruck, it may lose ground in the race to dominate the electric vehicle market and lose some of its share of the global automotive market.
