Elon Musk Sets Expectations for Tesla’s Cybercab Production
Elon Musk recently ignited a back-and-forth with Ryanair’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, over the airline’s failure to adopt Starlink technology for in-flight Wi-Fi.
Ryanair’s Response to Musk’s Criticism
The tension escalated when O’Leary addressed the media following Musk’s comments. He asserted that the criticism has unexpectedly led to a surge in Ryanair bookings, noting a 2-3% increase in recent days.
O’Leary’s Statements
- O’Leary remarked that 90% of Starlink’s predictions about passenger willingness to pay for Wi-Fi access don’t align with their experience.
- He humorously referenced Musk’s earlier jibes, calling Musk’s remarks a “cesspit,” indicating disdain for Musk’s social media presence.
- Despite the banter, he acknowledged Musk’s comments have provided Ryanair with valuable publicity.
Potential Acquisition Rumors
Musk hinted at interest in purchasing Ryanair and potentially replacing O’Leary with someone else named Ryan. O’Leary lightheartedly responded that Musk’s investment in Ryanair could be wise, but current regulations prevent non-European citizens from owning a majority stake in European airlines.
Public and Social Media Reaction
This ongoing feud has garnered considerable attention, with many calling for it to conclude as supporters of Musk view it as a distraction. Ryanair, known for its humorous Twitter presence, continues to engage with the audience while the situation unfolds.
Summary of Key Points
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Booking Increase | Ryanair experienced a 2-3% rise in bookings due to publicity from Musk’s statements. |
| CEO Comments | O’Leary criticized Musk and Starlink’s assumptions about passenger behavior. |
| Acquisition Rumors | Musk expressed interest in acquiring Ryanair, which prompted O’Leary’s humorous response. |
This rivalry highlights the intersection of technology and air travel, and its implications for both Musk’s ventures and Ryanair’s business strategy. As the exchange continues, it remains to be seen how it will affect both parties in the long run.
