Elon Musk, during Tesla's Q1 2025 earnings call, addressed the negative effects of increased tariffs on the company's operations and growth. The newly imposed 145% tariff on Chinese goods has prompted Tesla to halt imports of critical auto parts from China, impacting production plans for new models, including the Cybercab robotaxi and the electric semi-truck.
According to Insider Monkey, Tesla’s vehicle deliveries have declined by 13% year-over-year, a situation exacerbated by the high tariffs and Musk's political engagements. These issues are adding pressure on Tesla’s operations and affecting its brand and market demand.
Musk reiterated the company's strategic commitment to free trade, aiming for tariff-free markets crucial for scaling ambitious projects like autonomous vehicles and humanoid robots. Despite the setbacks, Musk maintains an optimistic outlook, aspiring for Tesla to eventually become the most valuable company globally, albeit acknowledging foreseeable challenges ahead.