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Tesla revolt reveals secret design plan

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【Summary】Tesla engineers secretly designed alternative versions of the Cybertruck after being upset with its unconventional shape, according to the company's chief designer. The stainless steel truck's design caused dissent among workers, with many disliking it. Tesla CEO Elon Musk insisted on creating a futuristic and unconventional design, refusing to consider more conventional ideas. This revelation is part of a biography on Musk by Walter Isaacson.

FutureCar Staff    Sep 13, 2023 4:18 PM PT
Tesla revolt reveals secret design plan

Tesla's upcoming vehicle, the Cybertruck, is set to offer a unique combination of utility and performance, according to the company. The stainless steel truck, which takes inspiration from the design of the 1960s Lotus Esprit, as well as video games and sci-fi movies, has caused some controversy among Tesla engineers.

Chief designer Franz von Holzhausen revealed that many workers at the company were initially unhappy with the unconventional shape of the Cybertruck. Some even went so far as to secretly design alternative versions of the vehicle. However, Tesla CEO Elon Musk remained steadfast in his vision for a futuristic and unconventional design.

The biography on Musk by Walter Isaacson sheds light on the determination and stubbornness of the Tesla boss. Even when faced with opposition from his employees, Musk insisted on creating a vehicle that would "look like the future." This commitment to innovation has been a recurring theme in Tesla's projects.

One example of this is the development of a mass-market car with a price tag of $25,000. Despite repeatedly rejecting the idea in meetings, Musk's chief designer, von Holzhausen, kept the concept alive as a "shadow project." This persistence and refusal to give up on ideas is a characteristic that defines Musk.

The Cybertruck was first unveiled to the public in 2019, alongside an all-electric quad bike. The response was overwhelming, with over 200,000 orders received within the first three days. However, production of the Cybertruck has faced delays, and it is only now that deliveries to customers are set to begin later this year.

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