Veteran Auto Analyst Adam Jonas Transitions to AI Research at Morgan Stanley
After nearly three decades as a leading voice in automotive industry analysis, Adam Jonas, a prominent Morgan Stanley research analyst, is embarking on a new chapter. Known for his deep insights into Tesla and the evolving automotive landscape, Jonas will now concentrate on emerging technologies within artificial intelligence (AI), including autonomous vehicles, electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOLs), robotics, and space exploration.
A Storied Career Centered on Automobiles and Innovation
Jonas’ career trajectory traces back to his early days at Dean Witter, which later became part of Morgan Stanley. Aside from a brief period researching at a European rival, he has been steadily climbing the ranks, earning credibility for his visionary analysis of the automotive sector.
His name became synonymous with Tesla’s bullish narrative during the electric vehicle revolution, where he distinguished himself by envisioning Tesla’s potential beyond traditional car manufacturing — thinking of the company as a pioneer in autonomous robotaxi networks and AI-driven mobility solutions. This foresight helped justify the company’s lofty market valuations when many others remained skeptical.
Shifting Gears: From Automobiles to Physical Embodied AI
According to an internal Morgan Stanley memo obtained by CNBC, Jonas stated, “After nearly 30 years covering autos, I am pursuing an exciting opportunity within Morgan Stanley's research department focusing on physical/embodied AI (AVs, eVTOLs, space, humanoid robots, etc), leveraging the ideas and relationships from my talented research colleagues across public and private companies.”
This pivot signals a strategic recognition of the convergence between transportation electrification, autonomy, robotics, and AI — sectors increasingly intertwined as technology reshapes mobility and beyond.
Continuity and Change: Successor Takes the Wheel in Auto Coverage
With Jonas stepping into this wider technology arena, Andrew Percoco will succeed him as Morgan Stanley’s lead analyst covering the North American auto industry. Percoco's upcoming appointment was first reported by Bloomberg News, highlighting the firm’s intention to maintain robust coverage of the automotive sector amid steady industry transformation.
What This Means for Investors and Industry Watchers
- Expanding Research Horizons: Jonas’ move reflects the growing importance of AI and robotics as pillars of future innovation, beyond traditional automotive analysis.
- Investor Confidence: His reputation and deep industry relationships lend credibility to Morgan Stanley’s AI-focused research efforts, potentially guiding investment strategies in emerging tech sectors.
- Coverage Evolution: As electric and autonomous vehicles become central to transportation, analysts like Percoco will face the challenge of interpreting fast-moving trends and disruptions.
Expert Commentary: The Broader Implications of Jonas’ Transition
Adam Jonas’ career pivot is emblematic of a broader shift within Wall Street research and the investment world. Traditional sector boundaries are dissolving as AI and robotics permeate multiple industries, compelling analysts to develop multidisciplinary expertise.
From a policy and economic perspective, this evolution raises critical questions about the future workforce, regulatory frameworks for AI-driven technologies, and the pace at which innovation can be integrated safely into public life.
Morgan Stanley’s strategic move also sends signals about where capital and attention are being allocated, underscoring AI’s growing role not just as a technological curiosity but as a transformative economic force.
What’s Next for the AI and Auto Sectors?
- Physical/Embodied AI Growth: Autonomous vehicles and eVTOLs remain volatile but promising markets, with regulatory and infrastructure challenges poised to shape timelines.
- Space and Robotics Investment: Increasing focus on space tech and humanoid robots reflects futuristic yet tangible frontiers that could redefine sectors from manufacturing to logistics.
- Market Dynamics: Analysts' insights into these emerging fields will be crucial for investors navigating tech-driven disruption amid global economic uncertainties.
Editor’s Note
Adam Jonas’ transition within Morgan Stanley comes at a pivotal time when the intersection of AI and mobility is reshaping industries and investment landscapes alike. This move not only recognizes his expertise in innovation-driven sectors but also highlights the need for adaptive research strategies in a rapidly evolving technological era. Investors and policymakers alike should watch closely how embodied AI expands, addressing pressing challenges such as safety, regulation, and economic impact while seizing new opportunities. What will this mean for the future of transportation and automation? Only time will tell, but the conversation is just beginning.
