The article is out to lunch. The only way Tesla could be competitive is if they produce a car for around $20,000, roughly the price of a new Honda Civic. Also, the gas companies will respond to decreased demand by raising prices to maintain the current level of profit.
They can produce a car at around $30,000 and compete against the $20,000 Honda civic, given there is minimal maintenance expense and minimal gas expenses. A Tesla car to compete in that space will be available in 3 - 4 years.