tesla car names

Guri Bee

3 min read

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20-10-2024

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Why Does Tesla Name Its Cars After Famous Scientists?

Tesla cars are known for their cutting-edge technology and sleek design, but there's something else that sets them apart: their unique names. Instead of following the traditional car naming conventions, Tesla opted for a different approach, choosing to honor prominent scientists and inventors. But why?

Let's delve into the fascinating world of Tesla car names and explore the reasoning behind this unconventional choice.

The Beginning: Roadster and Model S

The journey began with the Tesla Roadster, a two-seater sports car launched in 2008. Though not named after a scientist, it served as a crucial stepping stone in establishing Tesla as a force in the electric vehicle market.

The first car to truly embrace the scientist-inspired naming scheme was the Model S, released in 2012. The "S" stands for "Sedan", not a scientist. However, this paved the way for the future, establishing a pattern that would become synonymous with Tesla.

The Model Line-Up: Celebrating Scientific Brilliance

Here's a breakdown of the Tesla Model line-up and the scientists they are named after:

• Model 3: This compact sedan is named after Nikola Tesla, the visionary inventor who revolutionized the field of alternating current electricity.

  • Why Nikola Tesla?: Elon Musk, Tesla's CEO, is a huge admirer of Nikola Tesla and has even stated that the company was named after him.
  • Adding Context: Tesla's work with alternating current (AC) power laid the foundation for modern electrical systems, a fitting tribute considering Tesla's commitment to electrifying the automotive industry.

• Model X: This crossover SUV honors Elon Musk's (yes, he counts!) fascination with the letter "X". The "X" also signifies the vehicle's "X" factor, highlighting its unique and innovative features.

  • Why the "X"?: Musk has stated that the letter "X" represents the unknown, the unexplored, and the future, perfectly embodying Tesla's mission of pushing the boundaries of technology.

• Model Y: This compact crossover completes the "S3XY" lineup. The "Y" represents the next logical step after "S," "3," and "X" within the Tesla model range.

  • No Scientist Here: The "Y" is an internal code and signifies the crossover segment in which the Model Y competes.
  • Strategic Placement: The "Y" strategically positions the vehicle within the Tesla lineup and emphasizes the brand's commitment to offering a diverse range of electric cars.

Beyond Model Names:

Tesla doesn't stop at just naming their cars after scientists. Their vehicles also feature unique Easter Eggs, hidden features, and in-car software that pay homage to scientific concepts and historical figures.

Examples:

• "Easter Eggs": The autopilot system of a Tesla Model S has a hidden "Ludicrous Mode" that can be accessed by entering a specific password. This is a nod to the fictional Ludicrous Speed featured in the movie "Spaceballs."

• "Science References": Tesla vehicles often include software updates with Easter Eggs featuring quotes from famous scientists or references to scientific discoveries.

The Tesla Name-Game: A Marketing Masterclass

The use of scientific names serves a strategic marketing purpose. It allows Tesla to:

• Position itself as a leader in innovation: Associating its cars with influential scientists instantly links Tesla with groundbreaking technology and futuristic thinking.
• Elevate the brand image: Choosing names that evoke intelligence, creativity, and ingenuity creates a perception of quality and prestige.
• Create a sense of exclusivity: By referencing figures like Nikola Tesla, Elon Musk subtly implies that their cars are not just transportation devices, but vehicles for the intellectually curious.

Conclusion

Tesla's choice of naming its cars after scientists is more than just a marketing tactic; it's a reflection of their values, their vision, and their ambition to push the boundaries of technology. By celebrating scientific brilliance, Tesla aims to inspire its customers and create a legacy that transcends just driving a car.

Further Research:

• Tesla Motors: Naming Conventions - A Reddit discussion exploring the naming patterns used by Tesla.
• Tesla Model S Easter Eggs - A YouTube video showcasing some of the hidden features and Easter Eggs in Tesla Model S.

Did you know?

• Elon Musk's first company, Zip2, was named after "Zip" from the 1990s TV show "The Simpsons".
• The "Ludicrous Mode" Easter Egg in the Model S autopilot system takes approximately 10 seconds to activate, mirroring the scene in "Spaceballs" where the Ludicrous Speed Mode takes a while to engage.

This article was created using information from publicly available sources, including Reddit and YouTube.