Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ: TSLA) is not just another automobile company—it is a symbol of disruption, innovation, and bold ambition. From redefining electric vehicles (EVs) to pioneering autonomous driving and clean energy solutions, Tesla has become one of the most talked-about and actively traded stocks in the world.
However, with innovation comes volatility. In recent years, Tesla’s stock has delivered both extraordinary gains and sharp corrections, making it a favorite among traders and long-term investors alike.
This in-depth trading guide covers everything you need to know about Tesla (TSLA)—including the company’s background, latest developments, stock performance, business segments, risks, opportunities, and essential trading information. Whether you are a beginner trader or an experienced market participant, this guide will help you understand TSLA better and trade it with confidence.
Key Highlights at a Glance
- Tesla stock has faced significant pressure in 2025 due to Cybertruck quality issues, declining global EV demand, and intensifying competition.
- A large-scale Cybertruck recall has raised questions about product reliability and brand perception.
- Elon Musk has announced plans to launch a low-cost Tesla EV in 2025, targeting mass-market adoption.
- Growing controversies surrounding Musk and operational challenges have impacted investor sentiment.
- Despite short-term headwinds, Tesla remains a major force in EVs, autonomy, and energy storage.
Latest Developments Investors Should Watch Closely
Tesla Executes Its Largest Cybertruck Recall
One of the most significant recent developments for Tesla is the recall of over 46,000 Cybertrucks in the United States, affecting nearly every unit produced since late 2023.
The issue involves a stainless-steel exterior component known as the “cant rail”, which may detach while driving. This poses a serious road safety hazard and increases the risk of accidents.
While recalls are not uncommon in the automotive industry, this one is particularly notable because:
- The Cybertruck is Tesla’s most high-profile new product
- It targets the lucrative pickup truck market
- It carries a premium starting price of over $72,000
Tesla has faced multiple recalls in the past, including several in 2022 related to software and safety concerns. However, the Cybertruck recall has drawn heightened scrutiny due to the vehicle’s importance to Tesla’s future growth.
Market analysts have expressed concern that repeated quality issues could erode consumer trust. Even long-time Tesla supporters have described the situation as a critical turning point, warning that brand reputation damage could weigh on sales momentum.
Since early 2024, Tesla’s share price has declined sharply, underperforming broader equity markets as investors reassess growth expectations.
Elon Musk Confirms New Affordable Tesla Models for 2025
In an effort to revive demand and expand Tesla’s market reach, Elon Musk has confirmed plans to launch a new low-cost electric vehicle in the first half of 2025.
Key details revealed include:
- Target price below $30,000 (with incentives)
- Focus on manufacturing efficiency and cost reduction
- Alignment with Tesla’s long-term autonomous strategy
Musk has also hinted that this vehicle could be technologically linked to Tesla’s upcoming Cybercab, a fully autonomous robotaxi expected in 2026 and priced around $25,000.
Autonomy remains central to Tesla’s vision. The company claims to be producing tens of thousands of autonomous-capable vehicles per week—far ahead of many competitors in scale.
While it is still unclear whether the 2025 model will be a simplified Model 3 or an entirely new platform, investors view this move as crucial. A successful low-cost Tesla could unlock massive global demand and restore revenue growth.
Tesla’s Financial Performance and Earnings Overview
Tesla delivered strong full-year results in 2023, exceeding analyst expectations across key metrics:
- Revenue increased to $96.8 billion, representing strong year-on-year growth
- Net income rose to approximately $15 billion
- Earnings per share (EPS) significantly beat market forecasts
- Profit margins remained resilient despite pricing pressure
Although rising production costs weighed on operating margins, Tesla benefited from non-operating gains and regulatory credit revenue.
Looking forward, Tesla projects mid-teens annual revenue growth, slightly outperforming the broader automotive industry average. However, achieving these targets will depend heavily on execution, cost control, and successful product launches.
About Tesla Inc.
A Brief History of Tesla
Tesla was founded in 2003 by engineers Martin Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning with the goal of proving that electric vehicles could outperform gasoline cars.
In 2004, Elon Musk joined as a major investor and Chairman, providing critical funding during Tesla’s early struggles. Although Musk was not initially involved in daily operations, his influence on design, strategy, and long-term vision proved transformative.
Key milestones in Tesla’s journey include:
- 2008: Elon Musk becomes CEO during a financial crisis
- 2010: Tesla goes public via an IPO
- 2015–2017: Expansion into energy storage and solar solutions
- 2019: Shanghai Gigafactory begins production
- 2020: Tesla achieves consistent profitability and joins the S&P 500
Tesla rebranded from “Tesla Motors” to Tesla Inc., reflecting its ambition to be more than just an automaker.
Tesla Share Price Performance and Volatility
Tesla is widely known for its extreme stock price volatility, making it one of the most actively traded equities globally.
Recent Price Action (2024–2025)
- Tesla shares surged in late 2024 following strong earnings and optimism around new models
- The stock reached record highs in December 2024
- In 2025, TSLA entered a sharp downtrend due to:
- Slowing EV demand
- Increased competition from Chinese manufacturers
- Cybertruck recalls and quality concerns
- Negative media coverage surrounding Elon Musk
By March 2025, Tesla’s stock had declined nearly 50% from its peak, reflecting reduced investor confidence and heightened uncertainty.
Despite this correction, TSLA remains highly liquid and attractive to traders due to its strong price movements and news-driven volatility.
Tesla’s Core Business Segments
1. Automotive (Electric Vehicles)
Tesla’s primary revenue stream comes from electric vehicle sales. Its current lineup includes:
- Model S
- Model 3
- Model X
- Model Y
- Cybertruck
- Semi Truck
The Model 3 and Model Y account for the majority of global deliveries, while the Cybertruck and Semi represent future growth avenues.
2. Energy Generation and Storage
Tesla also operates a fast-growing energy business, offering:
- Powerwall (residential battery)
- Powerpack and Megapack (commercial and utility-scale storage)
- Solar energy solutions
This segment supports Tesla’s long-term vision of a sustainable energy ecosystem and provides revenue diversification beyond vehicles.
Competitive Landscape
Tesla operates in a fiercely competitive environment, facing pressure from:
- Traditional automakers like Ford and General Motors
- EV-focused rivals such as BYD, NIO, and Lucid
- Emerging global manufacturers offering lower-priced alternatives
Chinese EV makers, in particular, pose a significant challenge due to aggressive pricing and government support.
TSLA Stock Trading Information
Key Stock Details
- Company Name: Tesla Inc.
- Ticker Symbol: TSLA
- Exchange: NASDAQ
- Country: United States
- Currency: USD
Trading Hours (US Markets)
- Regular session: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM ET
- Pre-market: 4:00 AM – 9:30 AM ET
- After-hours: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM ET
TSLA IPO and Historical Performance
Tesla went public on June 29, 2010, at an IPO price of $17 per share. Adjusted for stock splits, the IPO price equates to just over $1 per share.
From its IPO to peak levels, Tesla delivered one of the most remarkable stock performances in modern market history, turning early investors into millionaires.
Stock Splits and Share Structure
Tesla has executed two major stock splits:
- 5-for-1 split in 2020
- 3-for-1 split in 2022
These splits increased affordability and liquidity, making TSLA more accessible to retail investors.
Does Tesla Pay Dividends?
No. Tesla does not pay dividends.
The company reinvests profits into research, manufacturing capacity, AI development, and global expansion, aligning with its high-growth strategy.
Why Traders Choose TSLA
TSLA is popular among traders for several reasons:
- High volatility creates frequent trading opportunities
- Strong reaction to earnings, news, and macro events
- Deep liquidity and tight spreads
- Suitable for day trading, swing trading, and long-term strategies
Many traders also access TSLA via CFDs, allowing speculation on both rising and falling prices.
Risks to Consider Before Trading TSLA
- Regulatory and safety scrutiny
- Product quality issues and recalls
- Heavy reliance on Elon Musk’s leadership
- Increasing global EV competition
- Macro factors such as interest rates and consumer demand
Final Thoughts: Is TSLA Worth Trading?
Tesla remains one of the most influential and controversial companies in global markets. While short-term challenges have weighed heavily on the stock, its long-term potential in electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and clean energy continues to attract investors and traders worldwide.
For traders, TSLA offers volatility, liquidity, and opportunity—but it also demands discipline, risk management, and close attention to news flow.
Whether you are bullish or bearish, Tesla is a stock that deserves respect, preparation, and a clear trading plan.
