Former Fisker CEO Drops Tesla Some Advice
October 29th, 2014 by James Ayre
Tesla shouldn’t have spent resources on the development of the all-wheel-drive version of the Model S, but rather should have used those resources to speed the development of the “affordable” 4th model, according to former Fisker Automotive CEO (and ex-Chevrolet Volt vehicle-line director) Tony Posawatz.
In addition to the advice/criticism, the former luxury-PHEV CEO offered some praise as well — giving note to a number of Tesla’s recent actions.
Given that Tesla’s stock actually fell somewhat with the announcement of the D, perhaps Tony has a point? Though, of course, you should always note who the person giving feedback is (as far as actions/effectiveness goes), and in this case that’s the ex-CEO of Fisker…. Hmm.
Interesting interview either way. Here are some of the best excerpts (via Benzinga):
“I do have some general concerns around their ability to make a profitable model that’s a high-volume model,” Posawatz stated. “I think, if you look at their dependence currently on the [Zero Emission Vehicle] credits for revenue and profit … it’s not a business model that I think is sustainable.”
Another key element that Posawatz pointed out that would be key to Tesla’s success is partnerships, because the automaker could benefit from the scale partners could provide.
“[The automotive industry] is an industry that requires a lot of capital, and scale does matter as it relates to trying to get your costs down,” he explained. “If you’re buying a million steering columns, it costs you a hell of a lot less than if you’re buying a few thousand steering columns.”
Not so sure that I agree with some of Posawatz’s inferences, but the point about focusing more on “affordable” models does seem to be a reasonable point.
The next few years look to be a roller coaster for Tesla, and should help to offer some clarity on the intelligence of the company’s recent choices.
Regarding Fisker, a new Fisker Karma was recently unveiled… but it’s basically the same as the previous one. We’ll see if Fisker can stay afloat this time around.
Image Credit: Tesla Motors
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About the Author
James Ayre James Ayre's background is predominantly in geopolitics and history, but he has an obsessive interest in pretty much everything. After an early life spent in the Imperial Free City of Dortmund, James followed the river Ruhr to Cofbuokheim, where he attended the University of Astnide. And where he also briefly considered entering the coal mining business. He currently writes for a living, on a broad variety of subjects, ranging from science, to politics, to military history, to renewable energy.
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