Tesla: The Road Not Taken

Tesla, the name synonymous with sleek electric vehicles and the visionary entrepreneur Elon Musk has revolutionized the automotive industry, to say the least.

But Tesla's impact extends beyond its cars.

Their marketing strategy is as unconventional and bold as their technology.

In fact, recently, Tesla’s “Juniper” Tesla Model Y was spotted with its front and rear bumpers covered up, initiating reports that they may be prepping for a redesign for its popular SUV.

We’re not talking about the latest addition to the car manufacturer’s swanky line-up though.

This edition of Morning Rush goes into the depth of Tesla’s unique approach towards marketing.

Let’s begin.

Tesla: A Brand Built on Innovation

Tesla, founded in 2003, set out on a mission to accelerate the world's transition to sustainable energy. Their focus on electric vehicles (EVs) came at a time when gasoline-powered cars reigned supreme. Tesla's gamble on EVs, coupled with their commitment to innovation in battery technology and self-driving capabilities, has propelled them to the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution.

The Tesla Marketing Machine: Less Hype, More Buzz

Tesla's marketing strategy is a breath of fresh air in the car industry, which traditionally relies heavily on television commercials and dealership networks. Tesla defies convention by focusing on:

• Word-of-Mouth Marketing: Tesla cultivates a loyal customer base who rave about their vehicles' performance, technology, and environmental benefits. Positive word-of-mouth builds trust and excitement organically.

• Compelling Content: Tesla leverages its website and social media platforms to share informative content about their products, upcoming advancements, and the future of sustainable transportation. This educates potential customers and reinforces Tesla's brand image as a leader in innovation.

• Direct Sales Model: Bypassing dealerships, Tesla sells directly to consumers through company-owned showrooms. This allows them to control the customer experience and messaging.

• Elon Musk: The ever-expressive Elon Musk acts as a brand ambassador himself. His active social media presence and bold pronouncements keep Tesla in the headlines and generate excitement around the brand.

Tesla's Marketing Masterstrokes

Tesla's marketing strategy boasts some brilliant campaigns:

• The Roadster in Space: In 2018, a Tesla Roadster, serving as a test payload for SpaceX's Falcon Heavy rocket, rocketed into space playing David Bowie's "Space Oddity." This audacious stunt captured global attention and cemented Tesla's association with innovation and a touch of eccentricity.

Viral Safety Videos: Tesla's safety features are a central selling point. They've released compelling videos showcasing how their Autopilot technology has prevented accidents. These videos leverage social media perfectly, generating organic shares and emphasizing Tesla's commitment to safety.

When the Road Gets Bumpy: Tesla's Marketing Missteps

While Tesla's marketing is often lauded, it hasn't been without its hiccups:

• Overpromising and Under Delivering: Elon Musk's ambitious pronouncements sometimes outpace Tesla's ability to deliver. Delays in production and missed deadlines can damage trust and create frustration among potential customers.

• Musk's Social Media Gaffes: Musk's outspoken nature can backfire. Controversial tweets have tarnished Tesla's image on occasion.

Tesla and the Influencers: A Calculated Alliance

Tesla has a somewhat nuanced approach to influencer marketing. While they don't pay social media celebrities to endorse their cars, Tesla has benefited from positive reviews and coverage from tech and car reviewers.

They also actively cultivate relationships with industry experts and environmental advocates who champion Tesla's mission.

The Road Ahead: Tesla's Marketing Evolution

As Tesla expands its product line and ventures into new markets, its marketing strategy will likely evolve. Here are some potential areas of focus:

• Targeted Online Advertising: While Tesla hasn't relied heavily on paid advertising, strategically placed online ads could reach a wider audience, particularly in new markets.

• Community Building: Tesla could further leverage online communities and owner clubs to foster brand loyalty and encourage customer engagement.

Tesla's marketing playbook is a case study in innovation and disruption. By focusing on brand storytelling, building a passionate community, and leveraging unconventional channels, Tesla has carved a unique path in the auto industry.

As Tesla continues to push boundaries, its marketing strategy will undoubtedly adapt and evolve, keeping the brand at the forefront of the conversation.

But who should they partner with when it comes to creators?

You’ll find out in an upcoming episode of Influencer Matchmaking on our YouTube channel.

Thanks for reading!