This suggests that a reaction from consumers who dislike Mr Musk’s antics are only one reason for falling sales. An updated Model Y, Tesla’s best-selling vehicle, has just gone on sale. In preparation Tesla ran down inventory of the old model, crimping supply. Customers doubtless held off purchases until the new car was available.

Elon Musk has made his latest big promise about robot taxis. His claim? That in under two years, Tesla will roll out a robotaxi service in the U.S., featuring