China’s Fascination with Maye Musk, Elon Musk’s Mother

Maye Musk, the mother of tech mogul Elon Musk, has garnered significant attention and admiration in China. The renowned model and dietician has also been vocal in her support for Tesla while in the country. However, despite her popularity, Tesla's car sales and market share in China are facing challenges.

Maye Musk: A Celebrity in Her Own Right

At 76 years old, Maye Musk is not just Elon Musk's mother but a celebrity in her own right. With 1.5 million Instagram followers and appearances on prestigious platforms like Sports Illustrated, she has captured the public's fascination. Yet, it is the Chinese audience that seems particularly enamored with Maye Musk.

Maye Musk's Popularity in China

A recent report by The Wall Street Journal sheds light on China's adoration for Maye Musk. Chinese makeup artist Nadira Aisikaer expressed admiration for Musk's elegant and sophisticated image, stating that such qualities resonate well with the Chinese audience. Altman Peng, a professor at the University of Warwick, highlighted Musk as the "perfect idol" for Chinese women aspiring to balance career, motherhood, and maintaining their allure.

Influence and Impact

Maye Musk's influence extends beyond social media, with her 2019 memoir becoming a bestseller in China. She has also emerged as an influencer for Chinese brands, as evidenced by her promotion of a massage waistband that sold over 140,000 units following her endorsement. Musk's support for her son's endeavors, notably Tesla, further enhances her appeal in China.

Challenges for Tesla in China

Despite Maye Musk's advocacy, Tesla is facing hurdles in the Chinese market. The electric vehicle manufacturer witnessed an 18% decline in car sales in April, alongside a decrease in its market share from 10% to 7.5% over a year. In response, Elon Musk made a strategic visit to China to bolster the company's presence and address the mounting competition from local manufacturers.

Looking Ahead

As Tesla navigates the complex Chinese market, Maye Musk's influence and appeal could potentially aid in revitalizing the brand's performance. With her strong connection to the audience and endorsement of Tesla, she might play a pivotal role in reshaping the company's trajectory in China.

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By: kvlamis@businessinsider.com (Kelsey Vlamis)
Title: China’s Fascination with Maye Musk, Elon Musk’s Mother
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/china-cant-get-enough-of-elon-musks-mom-2024-6
Published Date: Sat, 22 Jun 2024 02:35:58 +0000