Tesla's biggest strength has suddenly become a liability

For years, Tesla ( TSLA ) has operated more like a Silicon Valley tech company than a traditional Detroit carmaker, moving fast and breaking things.

The strategy has worked, leading Tesla to a valuation greater than that of the Detroit Big 3 combined, despite the company selling a fraction of the vehicles the others do annually.

Like a typical Valley company, Tesla has spent billions to ensure its technology and artificial intelligence are state-of-the-art.

Related: Tesla's history of settling Autopilot claims before $243 million lawsuit

Recently, however, the company has succumbed to a Silicon Valley problem that automakers don't have to deal with as frequently: poaching.

Just last year, Tesla reached a conditional settlement in a lawsuit against EV rival Rivian over the latter