Fisker CEO Deletes Twitter Account On Concerns About Elon Musk’s Control Of His Free Speech

Fisker, the CEO of Fisker Inc., deleted his account on the social media platform over concerns about how it will operate under Musk's ownership.

Musk's $44 billion bid to buy the company was accepted by the board on April 25. Fisker, a well-known car designer who once worked for Musk in the early days of the company, encouraged his followers to follow him on his social media accounts. Fisker isn't so sure about Musk's commitment to making a bastion for free speech.

He told Forbes via text message that he does not want his free speech to be managed by a competitor. I don't want a competitor to determine how my followers experience Fisker as we grow.

Some users are concerned about the direction the platform will take under Musk's control, as a higher tolerance for hate speech, vaccine falsehoods, and content that is racist, misogynistic or attacks the LGBTQ community. The popular account, which provides updates on where the billionaire flies his luxurious G650ER, is worried that it will be removed when the sale is done.

Fisker Inc. is still on the social networking site despite him no longer being on it. Fisker didn't say whether or not the Los Angeles-based carmaker maintains its account. A company spokeswoman didn't respond to a request for comment.

Fisker was an early design consultant for the vehicle that would eventually become the Model S sedan. Musk sued Fisker in 2008 for breaching his contract because he didn't like the idea of the project. Fisker denied the accusation.

The plug-in hybrid car from Fisker was the first attempt to take onTesla, but it failed about a decade ago.

The base Sport version of The Ocean costs $37,499 and goes 250 miles per charge. A top-of-the-range Extreme grade gets at least 350 miles per charge and will set buyers back $68,999. The second Fisker model, the PEAR, will be built in a partnership with Foxconn in Lordstown, Ohio.

Fisker shares fell 4% to $10.52 on Tuesday.