Musk Demands 80-Hour Workweeks but Barely Clocks 40 at Tesla—Leaked Data Exposes Brutal Double Standard

In the whirlwind world of tech entrepreneurship, few figures are as polarizing and influential as Elon Musk. Known for his relentless drive, Musk has often been portrayed as the tireless CEO who juggles multiple ventures with ease. However, recent developments have begun to challenge this narrative. A group of investors demands that Musk allocate at least 40 hours per week to Tesla, the company he once insisted should operate with employees working 80-hour weeks. This request comes amidst concerns that Musk’s focus has shifted away from Tesla, potentially impacting the company’s performance during a critical financial and industrial period.

Musk’s Expanding Empire

Elon Musk’s involvement in multiple high-profile ventures is well-documented. From the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to cutting-edge companies like SpaceX, Neuralink, and xAI, Musk’s plate is undeniably full. These commitments have led investors to worry that Tesla is no longer his primary focus. Notably, the American Federation of Teachers, holding approximately 8 million Tesla shares, has joined this chorus of concern.

These investors have highlighted what they perceive as Musk’s growing disengagement, fearing this could destabilize Tesla. The timing of these concerns is crucial, as Tesla navigates one of its most challenging financial and industrial crises. The call for Musk to dedicate more time to Tesla underscores the importance of his leadership in maintaining the company’s trajectory.

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A Clear Demand: 40 Hours for Tesla

The investor group is not asking for Musk to step down but to commit to a minimum presence at Tesla. They suggest a practical compromise: concentrate these 40 hours over three days, allowing Musk two days to manage his other enterprises. As Tejal Patel, director of the SOC Investment Group, stated in Fortune, “We want to ensure he dedicates enough time to effectively oversee the company.”

Another significant request from the investors is the development of a clear, public succession plan, with a strategic roadmap spanning two to five years. This measure aims to prevent Tesla from being left leaderless in case of Musk’s prolonged absence or unforeseen circumstances. The demand is not intended to sideline Musk but to prepare for an interim leader who can maintain the group’s industrial and commercial direction.

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Addressing Governance Conflicts

Investor concerns extend beyond Musk’s time allocation. They criticize the company’s leadership composition, which they view as overly aligned with Musk, potentially compromising objectivity. Specifically, they call for the appointment of at least one genuinely independent board member, free from past or present connections to Musk or his associates.

Jack Hartung’s recent appointment to the board, given his longstanding professional ties with Kimbal Musk, Elon’s brother, exemplifies these concerns. Investors fear this perceived nepotism could skew decision-making, particularly regarding executive compensation. The substantial bonus awarded to Musk in 2018 is cited as a prime example of such imbalances.

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The Evolving Role of Musk in Tesla’s Future

This investor letter underscores a growing unease among shareholders, who expect a level of commitment commensurate with Tesla’s lofty ambitions. The contrast is stark: Musk, who once championed 80 to 100-hour workweeks, is now perceived as not even committing 40 hours to Tesla, by his own admission. As Tesla evolves from an innovative pioneer to an industry giant, it can no longer be just one of the many ventures Musk oversees. The shareholders demand accountability and a full-time leader at the helm.

As Elon Musk continues to balance his various enterprises, the question of his involvement in Tesla remains a critical issue. Investors have made their stance clear, seeking a more focused and structured leadership approach. Will Musk adapt to these demands and prioritize Tesla, or will his attention remain divided among his many ventures? The future of Tesla could very well hinge on the answer.

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