January 7, New York (Reuters Breakingviews) – On its own, the $745 billion Tesla (TSLA.O) losing to China's BYD (002594.SZ) for the title of world leader in electric vehicle sales isn't disastrous. However, CEO Elon Musk's once-dominant business might be undermined by strained profits and rising trade protectionism. There aren't many simple methods to get out of the strain in the auto sector. But Tesla is capable of more: turning into a vital component of the infrastructure in the United States.
