Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk has long criticised India for having import tariffs of around 100% on EVs which protect local automakers such as Tata Motors in the world’s third largest auto market, where EV adoption is still at a nascent stage.
India’s government in March unveiled a new EV policy lowering import taxes substantially to 15% if a carmaker invests at least $500 million and sets up a factory.
Patel repeatedly criticized Musk, labeling him a monopolist, accusing him of mass data collection, advocating for more aggressive government oversight of his companies, and arguing that his wealth came from federal contracts, i.e., taxpayer dollars.
HM a quarter of a billion does not buy loyalty from the big guy. Interesting.
No surprise to see a do as I say not as I do here. I seem to recall one of the reasons for tariffs was the return of manufacturing and jobs to the country imposing them. Perhaps it’s only the US who is allowed to pursue that strategy.
Musk is doing exactly what the president has in mind. He is taking some heat for the big changes the administration sees as needed. Yes, Musk is expendable and can be dumped at any time. But not now. He is playing his role very well. And seems to be making progress against the buracracy that usually stalls and delays such efforts.
Most Trump rejects can make millions writing a tell all book about their adventures. Only a few end up going to jail. I suspect Musk is smart enough to avoid jail but the book will probably be a million dollar venture. Peanuts to him. But worth the effort. He likes the limelight that comes from the book tour.