Musk lauds Chinese carmakers as Tesla moves to repair image

Musk also spoke about data security during his appearance Friday, saying it is the cornerstone of the industry as it develops. — Reuters

Elon Musk praised Chinese automakers as “the most competitive in the world” at an online forum Friday, where the Tesla Inc chief also touched upon data security and the nation’s “great potential” as a market for electric vehicles.

Musk was in flattery mode in his pre-recorded appearance at the World New Energy Vehicle Congress, taking place in the southern Chinese island of Hainan. China is the world’s biggest EV market and of critical importance to Tesla, particularly after a rocky few months that dented its reputation in the country.