Tesla and SpaceX founder Elon Musk has said that his factories will be repurposed to produce ventilators in case of any shortages during the COVID-19 outbreak.
The billionaire CEO responded to a fan tweet suggesting that he repurposes his factories to make ventilators. He responded to it saying that he will do so if there is need for it.
FiveThirtyEight editor in chief Nate Silver responded to the tweet saying that there is a shortage right now and Elon finally said:
Tesla makes cars with sophisticated hvac systems. SpaceX makes spacecraft with life support systems. Ventilators are not difficult, but cannot be produced instantly. Which hospitals have these shortages you speak of right now?
The tweet attracted hundreds of replies of people pointing out shortages in America and other regions across the globe.
Additionally, Tesla is also finally reducing the headcount in its facilities to help workers maintain social distancing and prevent the virus from spreading as much as possible. They have reduced around 2500 workers at their facilities and while this would not help make up for earlier statements, it will definitely ensure the employees’ safety.
Elon’s most recent tweet states how the state of panic will cause more harm than the virus itself.
