Thanks for this,
@adaptabl.
I respect you're waiting for the "affordable" Tesla.
I think it's harsh / premature to say "they suck at making cars in high volumes at a low cost". Their financial troubles are because they have been ramping up and growing - what, 50% per year? - while trying to re-invent multiple industries. As with everything Elon, they're trying to re-imagine auto manufacturing through automation. Yes, they've made some mistakes. But Elon had proven time and time again he can innovate despite the majority thinking he will fail. They will get auto production right, I think. The business plan (EV, no dealers, OTA updates, autonomous controls, powerwalls, etc.) is too strong, and the industry too staid IMO for them not to continue to grow market share. It's not a question of if they will succeed, the only question is, like you suggest, can they do it without needing a major equity partner. Either way, I feel strongly that Tesla cars will be a significant part of the future auto industry - there's no going back (unless you're like Trump and give coal life-support haha).
But I can understand if you're bitter waiting for the promised config while hundreds are bragging about their wonderful new Model 3s. Yours will come, I hope sooner rather than later!