Tesla vehicle sales have been under pressure in the U.S., China and Europe in Q2. Forbes reported Thursday that Musk fired Omead Afshar, Tesla's head of operations in North America and Europe. Afshar began at Tesla in 2011 and, during his tenure, reportedly became one of Musk's top lieutenants and most trusted allies.

Tesla shares rose 3% shortly after markets opened Wednesday even though the electric vehicle maker reported worse-than-expected second-quarter deliveries and production figures.