Tesla Inc. TSLA CEO Elon Musk said on Tuesday that it would be a “good idea” to invite Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump to visit the company’s gigafactory in Texas.
What Happened: “Good idea,” Musk wrote to the Tesla enthusiast who recommended inviting Trump to Giga Texas to enhance his understanding of EVs and Tesla’s other products and services.
“He is a big fan of manufacturing in America and Teslas have the most American content of any cars!” Musk added, expressing optimism for a fruitful visit.
Tesla’s Texas gigafactory covers 2,500 acres along the Colorado River and has over 10 million square feet of factory floor. The factory is home to both Tesla’s bestselling Model Y SUV and its latest offering- the stainless steel Cybertruck.
The company is now undertaking expansion efforts at the factory. Earlier this year, Musk said that the size of the factory would be "pretty close" to the length of a Star Destroyer from "Star Wars" or approximately 1600 meters long upon completion of the expansion works.
Why It Matters: Trump is against total electrification of the car industry and is seeking the elimination of subsidies for electric vehicles. However, Musk officially endorsed Trump in July.
During Tesla’s second-quarter earnings in late July, Musk alleged that the impact of the elimination of subsidies would only be slight for Tesla but devastating for its competitors. The elimination of EV subsidies would probably help Tesla in the long term, he added.
On Tuesday, during an interview with Musk on his social media platform X, Trump applauded Tesla and said, “You make a great product. Your product is incredible.” However, that does not mean that everyone should opt for an electric vehicle, Trump added, reiterating his criticism for total electrification of the automobile industry.
Musk previously also expressed willingness to be part of a “government efficiency committee” aimed at reducing an “accumulation of laws and regulations” in case Trump reclaims the White House in the upcoming presidential elections.
Trump is also seemingly warming up to EVs following Musk’s endorsement. Earlier this month, he said that he is “for” EVs.
"I have to be, you know, because Elon endorsed me very strongly. So I have no choice,” Trump said in his first joint rally with his vice presidential pick JD Vance in Atlanta.
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