Bulwark Takes: Europe Abandons Elon Musk, Tesla Sales Plummet – Detailed Summary
Release Date: May 7, 2025
In this episode of Bulwark Takes, hosts JVL and Ben Parker delve into the troubling developments surrounding Elon Musk and Tesla's declining fortunes in Europe. The conversation is both incisive and sardonic, offering listeners a comprehensive overview of the challenges Musk faces as Tesla's European sales suffer steep declines amidst a burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market.
1. Introduction: The Decline of Tesla in Europe
The episode kicks off with JVL introducing the theme of "Sad Elon" news, focusing on the significant drop in Tesla's sales across Europe. Despite the overall rise in EV adoption on the continent, Tesla finds itself losing ground to competitors.
JVL states at 00:37:
"Today we get word from Semaphore that Tesla sales in Europe are down."
This sets the stage for a detailed examination of the sales downturn.
2. Europe-Wide Tesla Sales Plummet
The hosts present alarming statistics showcasing the extent of Tesla's decline in various European markets. JVL challenges Ben to guess the percentage drops, leading to the revelation of staggering figures.
- Spain: 36% decline
- Germany: 46% decline
- Belgium: 55% decline
- France: 59% decline
- United Kingdom: 62% decline
- Denmark: 67% decline
- Netherlands: 74% decline
- Sweden: 81% decline
At 01:40, Ben reacts in disbelief:
"81% decline."
JVL emphasizes the irony:
"This is happening as more electric cars are being sold. So people are just saying, yeah, I'll take an electric. I'll take one of them electric cars. Which one? Anyone but a Tesla, please."
3. Underperformance of Tesla's Gigafactory in Germany
Despite opening a Gigafactory in Germany in 2021, touted to produce 375,000 cars annually, Tesla faces underutilization issues. JVL highlights the pessimistic outlook from news reports.
At 02:24, JVL sarcastically comments:
"The facility is likely to be underutilized for some time."
Ben interjects humorously:
"Nope."
The conversation underscores that Tesla's struggles are not confined to Europe alone.
4. Musk's Ambitious Government Budget Cuts Fall Short
Shifting focus, the hosts critique Elon Musk's political ambitions, particularly his pledge to reduce the federal budget by $2 trillion. JVL recounts Musk's interview with Jonathan Swan, where Musk acknowledged significant shortfalls in achieving his goals.
At 04:38, Ben anticipates:
"Oh, I can't wait."
JVL elaborates on Musk's response:
"I think it's possible to do that, but it's a long road to go and it's really difficult. It's sort of how much pain are the Cabinet and is Congress willing to take?"
Despite the grandiose promise, Musk has only secured $58 billion in tangible savings, a far cry from his initial target. The hosts mock the inflated figures by highlighting the discrepancy between projected and actual savings.
5. Musk's Fraught Relationship with Donald Trump
A significant portion of the episode examines Elon Musk's personal dynamics, particularly his tenuous friendship with former President Donald Trump. JVL shares anecdotal insights from Musk's interactions with Trump, painting a picture of a superficial and strained relationship.
At 07:24, Ben remarks:
"I just want to say all the respect in the world to Jonathan Swan for calling it a sleepover. Exactly what it is."
JVL continues with a humorous take:
"Mr. Musk ended up spending the night in the link room bedroom on several occasions. During one of those sleepovers, Mr. Musk said Mr. Trump called him late at night to tell him to make sure to get some ice cream from the kitchen. The billionaire said he helped himself to a whole container of caramel Haagen Dazs."
However, the underlying tension is palpable as JVL concludes:
"I don't think Trump views Elon as a friend. That's what makes us ultimately sad."
6. Tesla's Financial Struggles and Stock Performance
The discussion shifts to Tesla's precarious financial state, particularly its stock performance. Contrary to market optimism, Tesla's stock has not been performing well.
At 11:12, JVL reveals:
"It's not up. The Tesla stock price is not up."
Ben counters with skepticism:
"It's about flat then, right? Because they make so many good cars."
JVL confirms the decline:
"I'm not gonna lie, it's down. It's down. Year to date. A third. A third. Just since January 1st."
This segment underscores the tangible impact of Tesla's sales plummet on its market valuation.
7. Conclusion: The Tragic Arc of "Sad Elon"
The episode wraps up with a reflection on Elon Musk's narrative as a "Sad Elon." Despite his vast wealth and ambitious ventures, Musk appears isolated and beleaguered by mounting challenges.
At 11:54, JVL muses:
"If you lose a third of your money every quarter, how many quarters can you last?"
The hosts conclude on a somber yet cynical note, emphasizing their continued interest in tracking Musk's struggles as a source of "happiness and joy."
Ben adds at 12:11:
"Guys, we're gonna do more of this because this is the only thing, honestly, the only thing to give us happiness and joy. It's watching bad things happen to bad people."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- JVL [00:37]: "Today we get word from Semaphore that Tesla sales in Europe are down."
- Ben [01:40]: "81% decline."
- JVL [02:24]: "The facility is likely to be underutilized for some time."
- JVL [04:38]: "I think it's possible to do that, but it's a long road to go and it's really difficult."
- JVL [07:24]: "Mr. Musk ended up spending the night in the link room bedroom on several occasions."
- JVL [11:12]: "It's not up. The Tesla stock price is not up."
- Ben [12:11]: "It's watching bad things happen to bad people."
Final Thoughts
This episode of Bulwark Takes serves as a critical analysis of Elon Musk's declining influence in the European automotive market, his overambitious political pledges, and his strained personal relationships. Through a mix of humor and sharp critique, JVL and Ben Parker offer listeners a compelling narrative of Musk's current struggles, painting a picture of a mogul grappling with both business and personal setbacks.
For those interested in the intersection of technology, politics, and celebrity culture, this episode provides valuable insights into the challenges facing one of the most prominent figures in the tech industry today.