He’s very funny, works 80–90 hours a week': Indian-origin Tesla VP on working with Elon Musk

According to his LinkedIn profile, Ashok Elluswamy began his career at Tesla in 2014 as a software engineer. (Image: Gobinath/YouTube)

Ashok Elluswamy, Vice President of AI Software at Tesla, recently opened up about his experience working under Elon Musk, calling the billionaire entrepreneur both “funny” and someone who “works really hard.” Speaking on a podcast hosted by YouTuber Gobinath, Elluswamy discussed his professional journey, his Tamil heritage, and his current role at one of the world’s most pioneering technology companies.

The Tesla executive offered a rare insight into his weekly interactions with the CEO of Tesla, SpaceX, and X. “I meet with him every week. He is really smart in the sense that he can predict the future very early. He works really hard. Easily 80–90 hours per week. I feel fortunate to work for him. He is not afraid of taking risks. He is very funny. You can see it in person,” Elluswamy said during the conversation.

A short clip of the podcast was later shared on X (formerly Twitter) by Tesla investor Sawyer Merritt. The video quickly gained traction, with users applauding Musk’s leadership.

Tesla's VP of AI Software Ashok Elluswamy on what it's like to work with Elon Musk: "I meet with him every week. He is really smart in the sense that he can predict the future very early; He works really hard. Easily 80-90 hours per week. I feel fortunate to work for him. He is https://t.co/dB5l6EbxEx pic.twitter.com/qLPB0v0hUd
Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) May 14, 2025

Social media responses reflected admiration for Musk’s reputed intensity and leadership style. One user responded, “I love to hear this; thanks for sharing.” Another commented, “Elon Musk’s unmatched vision, relentless drive, fearless risks, and witty charm make him an inspiring example, leading his team with hands-on brilliance.”

Several users also acknowledged Musk’s demanding work ethic. “Working 80–90 hours a week shows his commitment, though that's an intense schedule!” one person remarked. Another added, “Elon Musk certainly has amazing talent and charisma to people around him. I have two personal friends working for Tesla and X.ai, each thinking they’re working for the best team and Elon Musk cares about them more than anything else.”

Elluswamy, who was born in Tamil Nadu, also spoke about his cultural roots during the interview. He expressed pride in his background and detailed his professional trajectory, which led him to become a key figure in Tesla’s Artificial Intelligence division.

According to his LinkedIn profile, Elluswamy began his career at Tesla in 2014 as a software engineer. Over the course of more than a decade, he steadily rose through the ranks within the company, contributing to its AI and self-driving technology initiatives. In 2024, he was promoted to the position of Vice President of Tesla AI Software, a role he continues to hold.