How do you define success? The intention of the program was to make electric cars for the general public. Tesla so far has sold luxury cars to the rich.
No, the intention of the program was to give Tesla (or any other company that qualified for the program) a competitive advantage against incumbents. It definitely succeeded in doing that. In fact, it was so successful Tesla paid back the loans early.
Ten years from now when people look back they will definitely say that the government played a critical role in Tesla's success. And that's a very good thing.
Ten years from now when people look back they will definitely say that the government played a critical role in Tesla's success. And that's a very good thing.