No. Elon Musk publicly challenged Daimler over a reported $1 billion Alabama investment in September 2017, and Daimler replied by pointing to broader plans for more than $10 billion in next-generation electric vehicles and more than $1 billion in battery production. Contemporary coverage said the exchange did not prompt a change in Daimler’s plans, so it does not show that Musk caused the broader investment commitment.
What Musk said—and how Daimler answered
On September 24, 2017, Musk responded to a post about Mercedes-Benz’s planned Alabama expansion: “That’s not a lot of money for a giant like Daimler/Mercedes. Wish they’d do more. Off by a zero.” The memorable phrase was “Off by a zero.” Webrazzi’s September 25 report reproduced the exchange.
Daimler answered the next day: “You’re absolutely right @elonmusk. Here’s the missing zero: Investing >$10bn in nxt gen EVs & >$1bn in battery prod.” Musk replied, “Good.” Those figures were Daimler’s stated broader investment plans, not a revised Alabama project budget.
What the $1 billion Alabama announcement covered
The $1 billion figure referred to a specific planned expansion of Mercedes-Benz U.S. International’s manufacturing footprint in the Tuscaloosa, Alabama area. The September 21, 2017 announcement said most of the investment was for the electric-vehicle initiative, including EQ-branded SUV production at Tuscaloosa and a nearby battery plant. It did not describe Daimler’s total worldwide EV investment. Mercedes-Benz’s announcement also quoted production and supply-chain board member Markus Schäfer saying the investment would grow the company’s manufacturing footprint in Alabama.
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How the investment figures differ
| Figure | What it referred to | Time and qualification |
|---|---|---|
| $1 billion | Planned expansion of the Tuscaloosa-area manufacturing footprint, including EQ SUV production and a nearby battery plant | Mercedes-Benz U.S. International announcement, September 21, 2017; most of the regional investment was designated for the electric initiative |
| More than $10 billion | Daimler’s stated investment in next-generation electric vehicles | Company figure cited in the September 2017 exchange and contemporaneous coverage; a corporate plan, not proof of actual spending |
| More than $1 billion | Daimler’s stated investment in battery production | Company figure cited in the September 2017 exchange and contemporaneous coverage; separate from the Alabama project figure |
TechCrunch’s September 26, 2017 coverage reported that Musk’s comment did not itself prompt a change in Daimler’s plans. The Alabama announcement came before his post, and the wider EV plan was already being described by the company. The available accounts therefore support calling Musk’s post a public challenge, not saying he persuaded Daimler to adopt a new $10 billion commitment.
What Daimler’s 2017 portfolio target meant
Daimler’s 2017 annual report described a plan to offer more than 50 electrified versions, including more than 10 fully electric vehicles, by 2022. That was a historical target, not evidence that the target was achieved or a statement of the company’s present-day lineup. Daimler’s 2017 annual report records the target.
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- 2 Modes of Operation: There are two ways to operate the 12V electric stroller, which can be operated by the child himself by manipulating the steering wheel and foot pedal. If the child can not drive, the parents can control the direction and speed by remote control
- 3-Speed & Smooth Start: The remote control provides 3-speed adjustment and manual operation provides 2-speed adjustment to ensure the safety of children, while equipped with a smooth start design to ensure the safety of your kids. The maximum speed can reach 3Mph
- Realistic Experience: The power wheel car comes with bright headlights and realistic taillights that look like real models, built-in music, voltage display, USB and AUX connectors, volume control, TF card slot and speakers, along with a widened seat and adjustable seat belt design to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for children
- Rechargeable & Durable: The battery type is 12V, the time required for charging is 8-12 hours, and it can run for 1-2 hours when fully charged, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
- Age and Weight Capacity: This children's car has a maximum weight capacity of 55Lbs, suitable for children from 3 to 5 years old, with excellent reliability of use
Which company was “Mercedes’ parent” in 2017?
The parent named in the exchange was Daimler AG. It is now called Mercedes-Benz Group AG; Mercedes-Benz AG is a Group company focused on passenger cars and premium vans. The company’s current investor information explains the naming context. Mercedes-Benz Group’s investor outlook.
Quick Recap
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