Jerome promoted to President of Automotive

Well we finally get some good news at the end of brutal week.

Jerome Guillen has been promoted to President of Automotive for Tesla.  I’m assuming this means he’s in charge of production, suppliers, engineers, sales, service, etc.

https://www.tesla.com/blog/company-update

I think this is a great move for Tesla.  Jerome is a proven veteran of Tesla.  He was the Model S program manager when it launched and ramped.  And he also was the previous head of Sales and Service.  And also, after a leave of absence, he came back to head the Tesla Semi program.

I’ve met and observed Jerome at a Tesla event a while back, and he striked me as highly motivated, well-organized, and very competent.  Obviously every person has their strengths and weaknesses, but I think his strengths will suit him well in his new role.

Jerome has his work cut out for him.  He’ll need to oversee the Model 3 ramp, ongoing and worldwide.  And then oversee the development and launch of the Model Y, pickup truck, Semi truck and the Roadster.  Not only that, he’ll need to be expanding delivery logistics, service centers, and also improving internal communications and other issues.

Most crucially, Jerome will need to navigate his relationship with Elon as they partner for a better Tesla. I’m optimistic that Jerome will be able to do so, especially considering he’s worked with Elon for many years and knows the challenges.







My Initial Impressions on the Model 3

I took delivery of my new Model 3 about a week ago and I am thoroughly impressed.

The Model 3 is an amazing car. First, the car looks and feels like a Tesla. I’m glad that they kept many of the exterior design features of the Model S as the Model 3 looks like a slightly smaller Model S. Driving the cars feels like vintage Tesla. Instant torque, seamless acceleration, and great handling. In fact, since the Model 3 is a smaller car, it handles curves much more adeptly than its big brother the Model S. Under 60mph, the Model 3 is a much more fun and nimble car to drive. At the end of every day this past week I was left thinking, “Wow! This is a great car!”

The interior of the Model 3 is the future of Tesla interior design. I personally think they nailed the interior design and it feels great inside. The seats feel great. The simplicity in design is stunning. I was quickly able to get used to the 15” center screen and wasn’t bothered by the lack of a driver console screen. Some people online have complained about how some of the functions work on the 15” screen, but I know all of the software can and will be improved upon. What they have right now is a fantastic start and is more than capable.

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