Tesla, once the undisputed leader in electric vehicles and a darling of the tech industry, has seen an extraordinary decline in market value—an eye-watering $800 billion wiped off since December. Amid this crisis, a prominent voice has now called for Elon Musk, the company’s iconic yet controversial CEO, to relinquish his leadership.
Ross Gerber, a seasoned investor who backed Tesla during its infancy, has publicly stated that Musk’s leadership—or rather, the glaring lack thereof—is the root cause of Tesla’s recent turmoil. His statements, delivered passionately on Sky News, reveal a growing frustration among stakeholders.
Gerber emphasized that Musk’s divided attention has become an insurmountable issue. Elon Musk, well-known for his relentless pursuit of diverse ventures, currently juggles responsibilities ranging from managing SpaceX’s ambitious missions to actively engaging in American politics. Most notably, his increasing role in supporting Donald Trump’s administration, specifically through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has been a distraction from his core responsibilities at Tesla.
Gerber is adamant that Musk’s involvement with political affairs, especially his alignment with Trump, has intensified controversy and made Musk a polarizing figure. The investor suggests that Musk’s public persona, once seen as an asset due to his charisma and visionary ambitions, has now morphed into a liability, causing potential customers to shy away from Tesla.
In the blunt words of Gerber, “Tesla’s brand reputation has been completely ruined by Musk’s polarizing presence. Sales are not just declining—they are plunging dramatically. It’s an undeniable crisis.” He continues with brutal honesty, “Tesla has the best product in the market, and yet we can’t move the vehicles off the lots because the CEO himself has become too controversial, too divisive.”
Recent boycotts and protests against Tesla, fueled by Musk’s overtly political associations and provocative comments on his own platform, ‘X’—formerly Twitter—have further tarnished the company’s image. Public backlash has escalated, severely damaging consumer goodwill that took years to build.
According to Gerber, Tesla has reached a critical point. He insists it’s no longer sustainable for Musk to simultaneously hold the reins at Tesla while pursuing extensive external interests. Tesla, in Gerber’s view, demands a dedicated leader—someone who can give their undivided focus, rebuild consumer trust, and revitalize the company’s reputation.
Speaking candidly, Gerber didn’t mince his words: “Either Elon Musk steps down and allows a competent and focused individual to lead Tesla full-time, or he fully recommits himself to the company and gives up these extracurricular activities. It simply can’t continue the way it has.”
While Gerber’s remarks are scathing and unequivocal, Musk himself has remained unusually silent. There has been no response, public statement, or acknowledgment from Musk regarding this dramatic call for his resignation.
This silence has sparked further speculation. Industry experts are divided, with some believing Musk’s legendary stubbornness may see him digging in deeper, refusing to relinquish control. Others wonder whether this latest criticism might finally compel Musk to consider appointing a successor to steady the ship.
For Tesla, a change in leadership could be both a risk and an opportunity. Musk’s departure could mark the end of an era defined by explosive innovation and rapid expansion, but it could also signal the beginning of a more stable and strategic future.
Gerber’s open challenge to Musk represents more than just shareholder frustration; it underscores a broader debate about the role charismatic founders should play in modern corporations. Tesla’s story is a stark reminder that no matter how visionary a leader might be, sustained corporate success often demands consistent, focused, and controversy-free leadership.
For now, Tesla stakeholders, analysts, and customers alike watch and wait. All eyes remain fixed firmly on Musk, awaiting a response that could significantly alter Tesla’s trajectory in the automotive industry—and perhaps redefine Musk’s own legacy.