Analysis
The statement reflects Elon Musk’s personal view and strategic goal for Tesla, but there is no objective metric to confirm whether the world must achieve a fully sustainable energy system within the next decade or if it would be "too late." Climate science calls for rapid decarbonization, yet the precise timeline is debated among experts, making the claim untestable at present.
Background
At Tesla’s 2020 shareholder meeting, Musk emphasized the company’s mission to accelerate the transition to sustainable energy. He warned that delaying the shift could exacerbate climate impacts, echoing broader concerns in the climate community about urgent action. However, the specific ten‑year deadline is a policy and advocacy stance rather than an empirically established threshold.
Verdict summary
Musk's claim about needing a sustainable energy transition within ten years is a forward‑looking opinion, not a verifiable fact.