Tesla is undergoing a notable leadership shift as Siddhant Awasthi, who led the Cybertruck and Model 3 programs after rising from intern to a top role, departs the company after eight years.

Awasthi helped launch Giga Shanghai, expand Model 3 production, and assist with Cybertruck deliveries, but he did not disclose his next steps.

Tesla continues a pattern of executive turnover as it concentrates on autonomous driving, robotics, and other long-term bets amid cooling demand and the expiration of U.S. tax credits.

Since its 2019 reveal, the Cybertruck has polarized consumers, enjoying strong enthusiasm but limited broad-market traction and a history of recalls during production.

Even with a high stock valuation and ambitious targets, Tesla has sold only about 63,000 Cybertrucks since late 2023, far below earlier promises of hundreds of thousands per year.

Competition from Rivian and BYD is intensifying as they expand, adding pressure on the Cybertruck’s sales prospects.

The broader market context remains crucial, including how demand may be affected by the tax-credit expiration and ongoing production and recall updates.

The Cybertruck’s promises of indestructibility and high-margin production clash with realities like heavy weight, limited range, and production inefficiencies, turning it into a costly project rather than a cash-generating flagship.

Analysts note Tesla’s retention challenges among tech peers, with Cybertruck viability hinging on stabilizing quality, eliminating recalls, and rekindling demand without steep price cuts.

Tesla plans to start selling the electric semi in 2026, but analysts question its impact given the small Class-8 semi market and ongoing product introduction challenges.

Tesla’s India expansion shows weak momentum, with only 104 vehicles sold through October and Model Y price pressures due to premium import duties and limited local manufacturing.

Tesla intends to expand Cybertruck sales internationally, targeting markets like the UAE and South Korea to diversify revenue amid domestic challenges.