Business Report: A Strategic Assessment of Tesla, Inc
Business Report: A Strategic Assessment of Tesla, Inc
Business Report: A Strategic Assessment of Tesla, Inc
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Assessment of Tesla 2
Table of Contents
Analysis of Market Sectors and Value Chains..................................................................................4
Tesla's Inbound Logistics: A Deeper Look at the Vertical Integration Strategy........................4
Sourcing of Raw Materials and Production of Components........................................................4
Consolidation of the Supply Chain.................................................................................................4
Inventory Management on a Just-In-Time (JIT) Basis............................................................5
Tesla's Operations: Embracing Cutting-Edge Technology and Lean Principles....................5
Manufacturing Technology on the Cutting Edge......................................................................6
JIT (Just-In-Time) Manufacturing............................................................................................6
Total Quality Management (TQM)............................................................................................6
Tesla's Outbound Logistics: Direct-to-Consumer Sales and Distribution Challenges...................7
Approach to Direct-to-Consumer Sales.........................................................................................7
Consistent customer Experience.....................................................................................................7
Distribution Issues.......................................................................................................................8
Tesla Marketing and Sales..................................................................................................................9
Traditional advertising is kept to a minimum...............................................................................9
Word-of-Mouth Marketing.............................................................................................................9
The Media Presence of Elon Musk.................................................................................................9
Digital Marketing and Online Platforms.........................................................................................10
Tesla Service: Over-the-Air Software Updates for a Better Customer Experience..................10
Software Updates over the Internet.............................................................................................10
Customer Advantages...............................................................................................................11
Engagement and Long-Term Relationship..................................................................................11
Extensive research and critical analysis.......................................................................................12
Strategic Level Analysis and Value-Added Strategy...............................................................12
Tesla Value Co-Creation: Innovative Products, a Flexible Supply Chain, and a Customer-
Focused Approach.....................................................................................................................12
Innovative product development..............................................................................................12
Adaptable Supply Chain...................................................................................................................13
Approach to Customer-Focused Sales.........................................................................................13
Theory of Marketing and Operations Management.......................................................................14
Marketing Techniques: The 4Ps Model.......................................................................................14
JIT and TQM in Operations Management..................................................................................15
Marketing and Operations Management Recommendations for Tesla.....................................16
SWOT Evaluation.............................................................................................................................17
TOWS Evaluation.............................................................................................................................19
Assessment of Tesla 3
Conclusion..........................................................................................................................................21
References..........................................................................................................................................22
Appendix: Market Performance of Tesla........................................................................................25
Assessment of Tesla 4
Tesla is a global automotive and energy company focusing on electric cars (EVs), energy
storage, and renewable energy solutions. The company is recognized for pioneering hastening
the global transition to renewable energy. Tesla's value chain, when analysed using Porter's
Value Chain Model, comprises a series of activities that add value to its operations:
Tesla's vertical integration strategy is a distinguishing element of its business model and
significantly impacts inbound logistics. The corporation owns and controls its supply chain
under this model, from raw material sourcing to final product manufacturing. It's a novel
Tesla obtains raw materials from mining firms, such as lithium, for its batteries. In contrast,
the majority of manufacturers rely on battery providers. Tesla has also invested in its battery
manufacturing facilities, such as the Gigafactory in Nevada, to develop its unique battery
packs. There are various advantages to having direct control over raw materials. It lessens
reliance on external suppliers, which might lead to price fluctuation and supply instability
(Stringham et al., 2015, pp.85-103). It also allows Tesla to develop freely, designing its
batteries and other components to meet its exact requirements. For example, it has pioneered
breakthroughs in battery technology, such as its transition to a new 4680-cell structure meant
Many component manufacturing techniques, like seats and other automotive parts, are being
brought in-house by Tesla. This unification helps assure quality control while reducing the
Assessment of Tesla 5
logistical and coordination problems of managing various vendors. However, this level of
vertical integration comes with its own set of issues. It necessitates large financial
expenditures and can increase operational complexity. Tesla, for example, must manage its
own production bottlenecks and supply chain interruptions, risks that many manufacturers
Tesla employs JIT ideas in its incoming logistics as well. Rather than stockpiling vast parts,
parts are delivered as needed for assembly. This method reduces inventory costs and space
requirements but necessitates close coordination with suppliers and manufacturing schedules.
In essence, Tesla's vertical integration strategy enables it to manage its incoming logistics,
reducing risks from external suppliers and allowing for more significant innovation (Jing,
2020, pp. 469-478). This strategy, however, necessitates tremendous capital and operational
complexity. Tesla must carefully manage these trade-offs to ensure its operations' efficiency
and efficacy.
Tesla has adopted lean principles such as Just-In-Time (JIT) and Total Quality Management
(TQM). JIT is a manufacturing method that reduces production system and supplier response
times. Tesla may decrease inventory costs and enhance efficiency by obtaining parts only
Meanwhile, TQM is a strategy for improving quality and performance to meet or exceed
customer expectations. Quality is integrated into every level of the production process at
Tesla, not simply the finished product. The company employs real-time data from its
manufacturing systems to monitor quality and swiftly detect and address any concerns.
Assessment of Tesla 6
Tesla has transformed the car industry by incorporating cutting-edge technologies into its
manufacturing processes. The company heavily relies on automation, robotics, and AI-driven
systems to streamline production and improve efficiency. These technologies enable Tesla to
achieve high precision, reduce human errors, and increase production speed (Bredenfeld et
al., 2020, pp.47-70). Robotic arms, for example, are utilized for various jobs such as welding,
(Badolato, 2022, pp.24-53). Tesla also uses data analytics and real-time monitoring systems
to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and optimize manufacturing operations. This
enables the company to identify bottlenecks or inefficiencies quickly and make data-driven
Tesla adheres to the JIT philosophy, which aims to reduce inventory and associated costs by
receiving and utilizing materials and components only when they are needed for production.
JIT assists Tesla in avoiding overstocking or carrying excess inventory, lowering storage
costs and the risk of obsolescence. Tesla maintains a lean and agile manufacturing process by
implementing JIT (Le et al., 2021, pp.23-52). It guarantees that materials are delivered
precisely when required, avoiding waste and optimizing resource allocation. This strategy
enables Tesla to adapt swiftly to shifting market demands and adjust production to specific
client requests.
Tesla places a high value on quality throughout its operations, adhering to TQM standards.
TQM is a methodical technique for obtaining and maintaining high product quality through
TQM is ingrained in every stage of the manufacturing process at Tesla. Quality control
techniques such as thorough inspections and testing ensure that each vehicle meets the
company's requirements (Leal et al., 2022, pp.123-152). Tesla also emphasizes using
feedback loops to identify and address problems immediately. Tesla's dedication to TQM
extends beyond the production process. The organization aggressively encourages employees
to share improvement suggestions and supports a quality and continuous learning culture.
which avoids traditional dealer networks (Gillmore et al., 2020, pp.61-78). This one-of-a-kind
strategy enables Tesla to deliver a smooth and personalized client experience. It does,
Unlike traditional automakers, Tesla sells its automobiles to consumers directly through
company-owned storefronts and its online platform. Thanks to its direct sales model, Tesla
has better control over the client experience, from initial enquiry to delivery (Du et al., 2021,
pp.1679-1687). Tesla can build tighter contact with customers, gather helpful feedback, and
about the benefits of electric cars (EVs), demonstrate technology developments, and provide
test drives. This personalized experience helps to reduce consumer anxieties and develop
Tesla's direct sales methodology provides a consistent consumer experience. With transparent
configuration, and ordering online. They may monitor their order status and receive
information along the manufacturing and delivery processes (Hong et al., 2020, pp.14-38).
performance.
Tesla can assure consistency in the brand experience and build a loyal customer base by
Distribution Issues
While direct-to-consumer sales have obvious advantages, they also present distribution issues
i. Infrastructure and Service Centres: As Tesla enters new areas, it must create physical
growing the network of Tesla Stores, Supercharger stations, and service centres to
ii. Regulatory Obstacles: Tesla faces regulatory problems in certain regions where direct
dealership models, forcing Tesla to modify its sales strategy to conform with local
iii. Logistics and delivery: Delivering autos to clients directly necessitates effective
logistics management (Halder et al., 2020, pp.10-38). Tesla must optimize its delivery
management.
Tesla addresses these issues by intentionally increasing its physical presence, pushing for
Tesla has developed a distinct marketing and sales approach that distinguishes it from other
company relies on word-of-mouth marketing and benefits from its CEO, Elon Musk,
Unlike many car firms, Tesla has taken a different approach to traditional advertising
mediums such as television, print, and radio. The corporation spends relatively little on
conventional advertising initiatives. Instead, Tesla stresses new goods, customer experiences,
Word-of-Mouth Marketing
become ambassadors for the company. By delivering excellent products and experiences,
Tesla cultivates a committed and enthusiastic customer base that promotes the brand to its
network. Positive feedback, testimonials, and personal recommendations all help to broaden
Tesla's reach and influence potential buyers (Gianesello et al., 2017, pp.257-280). The
distinctive nature of Tesla's electric vehicles, creative features, and the company's dedication
to sustainability add to Tesla owners' enthusiasm and advocacy. This organic word-of-mouth
marketing has shown to be highly effective in increasing Tesla's brand awareness and
reputation.
Elon Musk, Tesla's CEO and public face has a strong media presence. Musk's charming
demeanour, creative ideas, and active participation on social media sites such as Twitter have
gotten him and the Tesla brand a lot of attention (Sypko, 2022, pp.54-90). His tweets and
Assessment of Tesla 10
public pronouncements frequently generate headlines and spark debate, thus serving as an
Musk's media presence has been critical in increasing public awareness of Tesla's products,
technological achievements, and sustainability activities. It has also aided in shaping the
Tesla uses digital platforms and online channels to communicate with its target audience and
give product information (Bohnsack et al., 2021, pp. 59-70). The company's website serves as
a point for prospective consumers to research vehicle types, customize them, view price
information, and submit orders. Tesla also has a social media presence, posting updates,
Tesla emphasizes its vehicles' unique features, performance capabilities, and sustainability
benefits in its digital marketing activities. This strategy enables Tesla to reach a worldwide
upgrades. This one-of-a-kind solution enables the firm to continuously enhance car
performance and offer new features long after the initial purchase (Zhu, 2022, pp. 9-20). This
strategy improves the overall customer experience and illustrates Tesla's dedication to
Tesla uses robust connectivity and software skills to update vehicle software remotely. These
upgrades include everything from bug repairs and performance enhancements to adding new
features and functionalities. Using over-the-air updates, Tesla can address issues, improve
Assessment of Tesla 11
vehicle performance, and offer real-time enhancements without forcing consumers to visit
repair centres.
Customer Advantages
i. Convenience and time savings: Over-the-air updates from Tesla eliminate the need for
consumers to plan and visit service centres for routine software enhancements or bug
updates to improve their vehicle's performance, safety features, and overall user
experience (Li, 2018, pp. 28-49). These upgrades may include the addition of new
capabilities and functionalities that were not accessible at the time of purchase,
ensuring that customers benefit from technology developments even after they have
consumers with customized features and settings. Through software upgrades, Tesla
can add new options, improve existing functionality, and enable personalization based
Tesla's over-the-air software updates help the corporation, and its consumers build long-term
relationships. Tesla keeps customers engaged and delighted even after they make their
original purchase by consistently giving value and improvements (Jiang, 2022, pp. 2896-
2899). This continued connection increases customer loyalty and motivates them to advocate
for the company, which helps Tesla's word-of-mouth marketing and client retention efforts.
Assessment of Tesla 12
Tesla's strategic goal of becoming an EV market leader has been made possible through a
Tesla's distinctive marketing and operational initiatives, including its product differentiation
objectives.
Customer-Focused Approach
Tesla embraces the concept of value co-creation by actively engaging customers in the value-
creation process. Tesla guarantees that clients get the most out of their contacts with the
company and its goods through innovative product development, a flexible supply chain, and
Tesla's dedication to new product development is essential to its value co-creation strategy.
The company is constantly pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle (EV) technology to
provide improved range, safety, and performance—all highly valued by customers in the EV
industry.
Tesla has improved the range of its vehicles by investing in new battery technology, relieving
concerns about limited driving lengths. Tesla prioritizes customer safety with technologies
like intelligent driver-assistance systems and strong car constructions. Furthermore, Tesla's
Source: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fresearch-
methodology.net%2Ftesla-value-chain-analysis-
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=images&cd=vfe&ved=2ahUKEwj-yb-F-vj-AhWHpicCHS_hBfgQr4kDegQIARBP
Another essential part of value co-creation is Tesla's adaptable supply chain. Tesla can
its supply chain through vertical integration. This adaptability enables Tesla to offer new
Tesla can accomplish superior cost control, quality assurance, and timely delivery due to its
strong engagement with suppliers and capacity to integrate essential components, such as
battery manufacture, vertically (Agnihotri et al., 2022, pp.8-23). This, in turn, provides value
experience is prioritized by Tesla, which ensures that encounters with Tesla and its products
Customers can create and customize their vehicles online, making decisions based on their
Assessment of Tesla 14
interests and priorities. Tesla's sales staff and service centres are well-known for their
value co-creation. With its extensive driver-assistance capabilities, the Autopilot system
improves safety and gives a one-of-a-kind driving experience (Agnihotri et al., 2022, pp.8-
23). The ability to constantly improve and personalize the vehicle via over-the-air updates
enables Tesla to answer consumer requests, provide new features, and improve performance
and frameworks, albeit with some innovative approaches. The 4Ps model can analyze the
company's marketing practises, while Just-In-Time (JIT) and Total Quality Management
Source: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F
%2Fwww.marketing91.com%2Fmarketing-mix-of-tesla-motors
%2F&psig=AOvVaw2wNizMAP6MiEC2F_ouG838&ust=1684295961154000&source=i
mages&cd=vfe&ved=2ahUKEwiw4_rE-fj-AhUSnCcCHcY5AdwQr4kDegUIARDHAQ
Assessment of Tesla 15
cutting-edge electric vehicles corresponds to the "Product" part of the 4Ps concept.
ii. Tesla's price approach reflects the high value it sets on its products. Tesla vehicles are
technology, range, and performance they provide. The company portrays itself as a
premium brand, with customers who respect sustainability, innovation, and luxury as
priorities.
iii. Tesla's distribution approach departs from the conventional dealership model. Instead,
the company goes directly to the customers, avoiding traditional dealers and selling
vehicles through company-owned showrooms and its internet platform. This direct
iv. Tesla's promotion technique is distinct from typical advertising methods. Rather than
mouth marketing and benefits from its CEO, Elon Musk, prominent media presence.
Tesla uses media coverage and social media participation to generate buzz and
synchronizing production with customer demand, JIT reduces inventory costs and
waste. Tesla eliminates extra inventory and associated holding costs by implementing
JIT. It ensures that materials and components arrive just in time for production,
however, can offer obstacles, such as manufacturing bottlenecks, which Tesla must
ii. Total Quality Management (TQM): Tesla's operations management also adheres to
standards across all operations. Tesla prioritizes quality control, conducting thorough
inspections and testing to guarantee that each vehicle meets its high standards.
Employees are actively involved in the quality improvement process, which fosters a
i. Increase Manufacturing Capacity: The corporation should invest more in extending its
manufacturing capabilities with the increased demand for Tesla vehicles. This
production capacity, Tesla can satisfy rising demand and reduce customer wait times,
ii. Diversify the Supply Chain: While Tesla's vertical integration model gives the
company control over the supply chain, it also poses operational issues. Tesla should
consider diversifying its supply chain by engaging various vendors for crucial
help Tesla adapt to changing conditions while preserving product quality and delivery
efficiency.
iii. Increase Marketing Efforts: While Tesla has relied on word-of-mouth marketing and
Elon Musk's media presence, a more systematic marketing approach could assist the
company in reaching new customers and expanding into uncharted markets. Tesla
should dedicate money to creating focused marketing campaigns that showcase its
Assessment of Tesla 17
products' unique features, benefits, and long-term viability. This can include utilizing
digital marketing platforms, interacting with potential customers via social media, and
marketing strategy will assist Tesla in increasing brand awareness, generating new
leads, and solidifying its position as a market leader in the electric vehicle market.
SWOT Evaluation
Source: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F
%2Fswotandpestleanalysis.com%2Fswot-analysis-of-tesla-motors
%2F&psig=AOvVaw1L-
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Strengths:
ii. Tesla has created an influential and recognizable brand synonymous with
iii. Superior Product Performance: Tesla vehicles outperform several other EVs regarding
range, safety features, and performance. The company's emphasis on supplying high-
Weaknesses:
compared to traditional automakers. These costs are partly driven by the company's
vertical integration strategy and the necessity for ongoing R&D investment.
ii. Reliance on Elon Musk's Persona: Tesla's success is intimately linked to Elon Musk's
persona. While Musk's public presence has helped the company gain attention and
interest, it may need help if it becomes unduly reliant on his leadership and public
image.
iii. Potential for Production Bottlenecks: While Tesla's vertical integration strategy offers
benefits, it may also result in potential production bottlenecks. Managing the entire
supply chain and manufacturing process in-house can raise operational complexity
Opportunities:
sustainability and clean transportation, global demand for EVs is growing. Tesla is
presence in these markets to capitalize on the rising demand for electric vehicles.
iii. Diversification into Related Areas: Tesla's competence in energy storage and
renewable energy solutions allows for expansion into related areas such as energy
Assessment of Tesla 19
storage systems, solar power, and grid solutions (Tidd et al., 2020, pp.34-49). This
might assist the corporation in expanding its operations and revenue streams.
Threats:
competition, Tesla needs help defending its market share and retaining its competitive
advantage.
ii. Regulatory Obstacles: Regulations and regulations governing car emissions, safety
standards, and EV adoption incentives may impact Tesla's operations and market
iii. Potential Supply Chain Disruptions: While Tesla's vertical integration model gives the
business control over the supply chain, it also exposes the company to risks, like as
problems like geopolitical events and trade barriers may impact Tesla's manufacturing
TOWS Evaluation
leveraging technology leadership and a strong brand. Tesla is capable of the following:
i. Continue to spend in R&D to maintain its technological advantage and bring new
ii. Expand its global market presence by focusing on regions with high development
iii. In the competitive EV industry, capitalize on its excellent brand awareness and
iv. Expand charging infrastructure to meet the increased demand for EVs, improving the
customer experience.
networks to lower costs and capitalize on developing market growth possibilities (Zhu, 2022,
i. Increase production capacity to satisfy rising demand and realize economies of scale,
ii. Diversify its supply chain by bringing on new suppliers, particularly in emerging
countries, to reduce reliance on individual suppliers and mitigate supply chain risks.
regional growth prospects, lower import costs, and boost market competitiveness.
iv. Collaborate with government and industry partners to establish incentives and
Strengths-Threats (ST): Differentiating from the increased competition using a strong brand
ii. Continue to invest in R&D to remain ahead of the competition and to deliver new
iii. Build customer loyalty and attract new customers that appreciate sustainability,
broader executive team and corporate governance mechanisms. Tesla is capable of the
following:
i. Create a solid succession plan and nurture skilled leaders to facilitate a smooth
iii. Create a diverse marketing and communication plan that emphasizes the knowledge
iv. Prepare for anticipated supply chain disruptions by creating strategic relationships,
Conclusion
Tesla's strategic stance in the automotive and energy industries gives enormous opportunities
for the firm to add value to its operations and marketing. However, the corporation faces
enhancing marketing efforts, and utilizing data for better guidance. These initiatives, backed
by analytical frameworks like SWOT and TOWS, could help Tesla increase its value
References
Agnihotri, A. and Bhattacharya, S., 2022. Tesla Innovation and Growth at the Cost of
Originals.
Badolato, P., 2022. Understanding Corporate Income Tax Reporting: Tesla’s Electrifying
Cases Originals.
Bohnsack, R., Kurtz, H. and Hanelt, A., 2021. Re-examining path dependence in the digital
p.104328.
Bredenfeld, L., Cherubim, M., Kellermann, A.C., Lehmann, C., Malberg, S., Rafn, J., Kwon,
Du, X. and Li, B., 2021, December. Analysis of Tesla’s Marketing Strategy in China.
Gianesello, P., Ivanov, D. and Battini, D., 2017. Closed-loop supply chain simulation with
Research, 4(4), pp.257-280.
Gillmore, S.C. and Tenhundfeld, N.L., 2020, December. The good, the bad, and the ugly:
Evaluating tesla’s human factors in the wild west of self-driving cars. In Proceedings
of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting (Vol. 64, No. 1, pp.
Halder, S., Ghosal, A. and Conti, M., 2020. Secure over-the-air software updates in
Hong, Z., Li, M., Han, X. and He, X., 2020. Innovative green product diffusion through word
Review, 134, p.101833.
Jiang, T., 2022, March. A Business Model to Analyze the Tesla Based on SWOT Analysis
Jing, N., 2020, December. Research on Tesla’s Customer Care Innovation. In 2020
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Leal, V.M., Ribeiro, J.S., Coelho, E.L.D. and Freitas, M.B.J.G., 2022. Recycling of spent
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Zhu, Z., 2022. Analysis of the Valuation of Tesla Inc. In SHS Web of Conferences (Vol. 151,
545.41 billion in early 2023. This valuation places Tesla among the most valuable
Vehicle Deliveries: Tesla's vehicle deliveries have been steadily increasing. The company
supplied roughly 1.8 million vehicles in 2023, substantially increasing over previous years.
This expansion indicates rising demand for electric vehicles and Tesla's ability to acquire a
sizable market share. Tesla's stock price has exhibited tremendous volatility, with major
phases of rise and correction. The company's stock has appreciated dramatically over the