⚡ 10 Truths About the Creation of Tesla (That Most People Get Wrong)

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Think Elon Musk founded Tesla? Think again. This myth is so widespread, it's practically become internet folklore. Let’s break down 10 eye-opening facts that reveal the real story behind Tesla’s creation—and who was actually there from the start.

1. Elon Musk did not found Tesla

Despite popular belief, Tesla was founded in July 2003 by Martin Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning. Elon Musk joined the company months later as an investor—not a founder.

2. Musk invested in Tesla’s first major funding round

In February 2004, Musk led Tesla’s Series A funding with a $6.5 million investment. This made him the largest shareholder and the company’s chairman—but he did not start the company.

3. The name “Tesla” came before Musk

The founders chose the name to honor inventor Nikola Tesla, particularly for his development of alternating current (AC) and the induction motor used in Tesla vehicles.

4. Tesla's first prototype wasn’t even Musk’s idea

The Tesla Roadster, the company’s first car, was already being planned using a Lotus Elise chassis and custom-built electric powertrain before Musk joined.

5. The original CEO was Martin Eberhard

Musk didn’t become CEO until 2008, after both Eberhard and Michael Marks had already served in that role.

6. A lawsuit forced Tesla to acknowledge its real founders

After internal disputes, a 2009 legal settlement allowed five people—Martin Eberhard, Marc Tarpenning, Ian Wright, Elon Musk, and JB Straubel—to be listed as co-founders, even though Musk joined after incorporation.

7. Tesla nearly went bankrupt before Musk took over

In 2008, the company was in crisis. Musk stepped in, took control as CEO, and invested personal funds to keep it alive—this is when he became the public face of Tesla.

8. Musk didn’t design Tesla’s technology from scratch

Key tech behind Tesla’s early electric motors and battery systems came from engineers like JB Straubel and ideas licensed from AC Propulsion.

9. Musk’s role grew over time—but it wasn’t original

Musk became CEO and product architect after investing and gaining board influence. He transformed Tesla, but did not start it.

10. Most people believe the Musk myth

Thanks to his visibility, charisma, and media presence, many wrongly believe Musk “created Tesla.” The truth? He backed it, scaled it, and saved it—but he didn’t found it.

Summary:

✅ Founder: Martin Eberhard & Marc Tarpenning
💰 Investor (not founder): Elon Musk
📈 Impact: Transformed Tesla into a global EV leader—but wasn’t there at the birth.

chiki

Hi there! I'm a mixed-breed male cat with soft white fur and stylish black spots—part feline, part fashion icon. I was rescued and now live my best life! I love dry cat food, especially with tuna or mackerel. Most days, I nap like a pro, but when I’m up, I play with my sister Cha—my favorite partner-in-paws. Oh, and I’ve got a modern hobby: browsing the net and posting things. Who says cats aren’t tech-savvy?