Like you, I'm optimistic on Tesla. I think that with Elon at the wheel (pun intended) Tesla can overcome the challenges. However, unlike most of the replies above, I don't think it's a foregone conclusion. As Tesla becomes more successful and demonstrates a market for electric cars, the big boys will take notice. Already, a number of auto makers have electric offerings or plans for them. Those offerings up to now all fall short, but the competition is real and there are deep pockets out there with the capability, if they choose, to compete head on with Tesla. Tesla has a clear lead right now, and nimble and very bright management. But I think they also have a real challenge ahead. The good thing is that I think they know that and will not become complacent.
As for Korea, don't write them off. When I was a kid, "Made in Japan" meant "crap." Japanese consumer products were cheap and poorly made. Basically worthless. Then Japan got its stuff together and now Japanese products are top quality. (Except for those actually made elsewhere!) Korea is rising and their car companies are not linked to oil as the big three U.S. car makers are. China also. I would not buy a Chinese car today (oops, well, I did drive a Chinese-made EV for 4 years --the Zap Xebra-- but it only went 35 mph, which is in itself a safety feature :wink: ) but China is evolving rapidly and has a lot of coal but not much oil, and if it follows the Japanese trajectory in technology (and it has a governmental style that could impose such a trajectory if it chose) it could be a real competitor in the EV market in a decade.
I believe that Tesla will succeed, and will become a big player, able to hold its own against all the others. But I don't think it's a foregone conclusion. It has a tough road to hoe. I think it can do it. But I think your question points to the primary challenge that Tesla faces over the next decade or two.
I agreed with you Daniel, Korea is moving fast!
China is ambitious but quality control is a big issue, always!
