Core Insights - The CEOs of Tesla and Rivian received substantial pay packages contingent on achieving ambitious stock market and operational targets, but the likelihood of meeting these targets is considered slim [3][8][21]. Tesla - Elon Musk's pay package could be worth $1 trillion by 2035 if he increases Tesla's market capitalization by 534% from $1.34 trillion to $8.5 trillion [7][23]. - Musk's performance targets include selling 20 million vehicles and deploying a million robotaxis, with significant operational milestones tied to adjusted EBITDA [10][11]. - Tesla's recent financial performance has been mixed, with Q3 revenue of $28.1 billion exceeding estimates, but a 4% drop in shares due to lower-than-expected profit and increased operating expenses [17][18]. - Analysts express skepticism about Tesla's ability to reach an $8.5 trillion market cap, citing unrealistic goals and previous failures to meet targets [24][25]. Rivian - RJ Scaringe's pay package could reach $4.6 billion by 2035 if Rivian's stock price increases by 800% from approximately $15 to $140 per share [13][14]. - Rivian's Q3 revenue grew by 78% to $1.56 billion, but the company reported a net loss of $1.1 billion and maintained a cautious outlook for 2025 [19][20]. - Rivian faces challenges such as reduced EV demand due to the loss of tax incentives and ongoing cash burn despite revenue growth [27]. - The market appears more skeptical of Rivian's potential upside compared to Tesla, with a short interest of 21% indicating investor concerns [28].