The automotive future of Elon Musk in jeopardy: A 245 % tariff skyrockets the Cybercab’s price from $30,000 to $200,000 and the Semi’s from $250,000 to $1,000,000 before their launch. | HO

Elon Musk, the visionary behind Tesla and SpaceX, is facing one of the biggest challenges of his career. Just as his company was set to launch two of its most ambitious electric vehicles—the Cybercab and the Semi—a new tariff policy threatens to unravel his futuristic plans.

A Tariff that Changes the Game

Several countries have imposed tariffs of up to 245% on certain imported technological products and electric vehicles, aiming to protect their local industries. This measure directly impacts Tesla, especially in strategic markets like China, where essential components for its vehicles are produced.

The Pricing Nightmare

The Cybercab, an autonomous electric robotaxi designed to revolutionize urban transportation with an estimated starting price of $30,000, could now soar to as much as $200,000.

The Tesla Semi, an electric heavy-duty truck intended to compete with diesel models, would rise from $250,000 to no less than $1 million, even before entering the market.

This not only reduces the commercial viability of these models but also erases any competitive advantage against local manufacturers unaffected by these tariffs.

Musk Lashes Out on Social Media

True to his style, Elon Musk reacted harshly on X (formerly Twitter):

“Taxing the future at 245% is like shooting innovation in the head.”

It remains unclear whether Tesla will attempt to negotiate with the responsible governments or seek logistical solutions to bypass the tariffs.

Global Repercussions

Experts warn that these measures could slow down the global energy transition:

“These protectionist policies don’t just punish Tesla; they also hinder progress towards sustainable mobility. The world loses when innovation is stifled by taxes,” says an industry analyst.

Moreover, supply chains, product launch schedules, and investments in green technologies could be massively affected.

What Can Tesla Do Now?

Facing this critical situation, Tesla is evaluating different alternatives:

Relocating production to countries with lower tariffs.

Increasing global prices, risking loss of competitiveness.

Delaying launches until commercial conditions improve.

Exercising diplomatic pressure to reverse or mitigate the new tariffs.

A Fatal Blow to the Electric Dream?

Despite the setback, neither the Cybercab nor the Semi has been officially canceled. However, this fiscal barrier deals a heavy blow to Elon Musk’s dream of popularizing autonomous and emission-free transportation.

Will Tesla find a way out as it has done in other crises, or will the electric giant have to put its revolution on hold this time?