Overview
- Elon Musk confirmed AI5 and AI6 will be manufactured at Samsung’s Taylor, Texas fab and TSMC’s Arizona fab, with each foundry producing slightly different versions that run Tesla’s software identically.
- Musk said AI5 is still in development with samples and possibly limited units expected in 2026 and higher volumes targeted in 2027, with AI6 planned roughly a year later and aiming for about 2x AI5 performance.
- Analyst Ming‑Chi Kuo said Musk’s remarks validate a shift toward full control of Tesla’s chip roadmap, citing geopolitical risk, R&D flexibility and vertical integration rather than mere supply constraints.
- Musk reiterated long‑term plans to build Tesla‑owned high‑volume fabs, sometimes described as a ‘TeraFab,’ though locations and timelines have not been detailed.
- Korea JoongAng Daily reports Tesla’s Samsung deal is valued at about $16.5 billion, while other analysts caution that building fabs and moving away from incumbent suppliers carry significant cost and execution risks.