Elon Musk 'optimistic' about approval for SolarCity merger

Tesla Motors founder and CEO Elon Musk has said he is confident that the company's acquisition of his privately-owned SolarCity will be approved by shareholders.

The proposed merger between two companies of which Musk is a chairman provoked opposition from some Tesla shareholders, who argued that it presented a conflict of interest for the entrepreneur.

Musk said in a call with analysts on Tuesday that he would be surprised if the deal didn't go through.

"I'm pretty optimistic about where the vote's going," Musk said.

"The early votes so far have been overwhelmingly in favour. I would find it quite strange if that didn't turn out to be the case."

Musk has said that the combination of the two companies will allow for a ground-breaking transition to sustainable energy, using solar energy to eventually power cars.

The innovative car-maker released further details about the acquisition on Tuesday, including assurances over SolarCity's finances, which have been questioned by critics.

Musk said that the solar panel company had raised about $1bn in funds during the last four months.

Tesla investors are due to vote on the $2.6bn deal on 17 November.