Title: Tesla’s Unconventional Tactics to Secure Shareholder Approval: A Closer Look
**Tesla’s Sweepstakes-for-Votes Scheme Raises Eyebrows**
In a surprising turn of events, Tesla has upped its game to convince shareholders to vote in favor of relocating the company to Texas and approving CEO Elon Musk’s $56 billion pay deal. The company’s latest move involves offering shareholders a chance to win a factory tour with Elon and chief designer Franz von Holzhausen. This sweepstakes-for-votes scheme has raised questions about the lengths Tesla is willing to go to secure approval.
**High Stakes and Entertaining Developments Await**
With the June 13 annual shareholder meeting approaching, the stakes are high for Tesla. The combination of impending decisions and the enticing opportunity to win exclusive rewards promises to bring about entertaining developments in the coming weeks. Shareholders eagerly await what Tesla might offer next to sway their votes, such as dinner with Elon or even a Cybertruck.
**Fisker’s Struggles Deepen with Layoffs**
EV startup Fisker has been facing significant challenges, with rumors of a new round of layoffs circulating on social media. According to sources, the company has undergone several rounds of layoffs in recent months, leaving only about 150 employees out of the initial 1,135. Fisker’s ongoing struggles highlight the competitive nature of the EV market and the difficulties faced by smaller players in establishing a foothold.
**Deals Roundup: Where the Money is Headed**
Several notable deals have taken place in the transportation industry this week. London-based startup Orca AI secured $23 million in funding for its autonomous commercial ship voyage technology. Redwood Materials entered a deal with Ultium Cells to recycle EV battery production scrap. Australian startup Relectrify raised $17 million for its innovative inverter-free battery technology. Zypp Electric, an Indian EV fleet startup, raised $15 million in a Series C round led by Japanese conglomerate Eneos.
**Insights into the Future of Transportation**
The narrative also provides insights into various aspects of the transportation industry. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating Waymo’s autonomous vehicle software, adding nine more incidents to its inquiry. Lucid Motors announced layoffs ahead of the launch of its first electric SUV, while TC reporter Rebecca Bellan explores the challenges faced by Onyx Motorbikes after the sudden death of its owner and CEO.
**The Rise of Electric Flight in South Korea**
Archer Aviation continues to expand its partnerships to commercialize electric flight. The company has teamed up with Kakao Mobility, a ride-hailing and parking company, to bring electric air taxi flights to South Korea from 2026. This collaboration signals the growing interest and investment in the future of electric aviation.
**Apple Wallet Integration for Paris Transportation**
Apple and Île-de-France Mobilités (IDFM) have introduced support for transit passes in Apple Wallet, allowing iPhone and Apple Watch users to use their devices as Navigo passes for public transportation in Paris. This integration comes after years of negotiation and just in time for the upcoming Olympic Games. The move highlights the growing trend of using smartphones as digital wallets for transportation purposes.
**Concerns over Chinese Connected Vehicles**
As Chinese EV makers aim to establish a foothold in the U.S., concerns about national security have emerged. U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin plans to introduce a bill that could restrict or ban connected vehicles built by Chinese companies if they are found to pose a threat to national security. This development reflects ongoing debates surrounding foreign influence in critical industries.
**The Evolution of Spotify’s Car Thing**
Spotify’s foray into hardware with its Car Thing device was short-lived. After halting production in July 2022, Spotify recently informed customers that the device would cease to function after December 9, 2024. This move marks a shift in Spotify’s focus away from hardware and emphasizes its commitment to its core music streaming services.
**This Week’s Wheels: The 2025 Cadillac Optiq EV**
TC contributor Emme Hall provides her insights on the 2025 Cadillac Optiq EV, the latest addition to Cadillac’s electric vehicle lineup. With a focus on attracting new, younger buyers, Cadillac aims to revitalize its luxury brand. Hall notes that the Optiq’s sleek design and competitive pricing position it as an attractive option in the market. However, the challenge lies in differentiating itself from the numerous midsized crossovers available to consumers.
In conclusion, Tesla’s unconventional tactics to secure shareholder approval, Fisker’s ongoing struggles, and various deals and developments in the transportation industry highlight the dynamic nature of this sector. From electric flight to smartphone integration and the challenges faced by emerging startups, the future of transportation is poised for significant transformation.