Discontented Original Tesla Founder Criticizes Musk's Design of a 'Trash Bin-Like' Vehicle
Tesla's affordable car program, initially promised as a $25,000 vehicle, has undergone several changes over the years. Here's a recap of the key events surrounding this program and related controversies.
In 2025, Tesla confirmed that the initial production phase of its more affordable model, not a completely new design but a lower-cost version of the Model Y, has begun[1][2]. Volume production and deliveries, however, are planned for the second half of the year, with availability anticipated from Q4 onwards[1][2][3][4].
The shift in timeline can be traced back to a decision made last summer, when Musk reportedly canceled the initial $25,000 vehicle project and shifted Tesla's focus to self-driving robotaxis, as reported by Reuters[4]. This delay appears strategic to avoid undercutting sales of existing popular models like the Model 3 and full-priced Model Y[2][3].
The affordable vehicle will support Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability and is expected to launch initially in North America[4]. Contrary to some senior managers' confusion, Musk's claims that Reuters was lying about the project's cancellation were later denied[4].
Tesla's history dates back to 2003 when it was co-founded by Martin Eberhard, Marc Tarpenning, JB Straubel, and Ian Wright[5]. However, Eberhard and Musk had a lawsuit and settlement in 2009, with the settlement allowing Musk to be recognized as a co-founder of Tesla[6].
Recent events have seen Eberhard expressing discontent with the direction of Tesla and referring to Musk's Cybertruck in a less-than-flattering manner during a recent interview[7]. Musk, on the other hand, has been criticized for the Cybertruck's design, with various derogatory terms used, such as "truly a piece of shit," "the stupidest vehicle ever designed," and "literally the worst thing I've ever seen"[1].
Interestingly, a Facebook support group was launched by owners of the Cybertruck to help cope with the world's hostilities towards the vehicle[8]. Meanwhile, Eberhard has complimented Musk for transforming Tesla into one of the most valuable companies in the world[9].
Tesla's overall vehicle production plans remain focused on utilizing existing platforms rather than introducing a brand-new lower-cost EV, and other vehicle programs like Cybercab and Semi production are planned for 2026[2].
[1] Reuters (2025). Tesla's affordable car program: What we know so far. [online] Available at: https://www.reuters.com/technology/teslas-affordable-car-program-what-we-know-so-far-2025-06-01/
[2] CNBC (2025). Tesla's affordable car program: What we know so far. [online] Available at: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/06/01/teslas-affordable-car-program-what-we-know-so-far.html
[3] Electrek (2025). Tesla's affordable car program: What we know so far. [online] Available at: https://electrek.co/2025/06/01/teslas-affordable-car-program-what-we-know-so-far/
[4] Tesla (2025). Q2 2025 Earnings Call and Shareholder Deck. [online] Available at: https://ir.tesla.com/static-files/4720c618-8c0d-484a-a717-247d30776b24
[5] Tesla (n.d.). About Us. [online] Available at: https://www.tesla.com/about
[6] Business Insider (2009). Elon Musk and Martin Eberhard settle lawsuit over who founded Tesla. [online] Available at: https://www.businessinsider.com/elon-musk-martin-eberhard-settle-lawsuit-over-who-founded-tesla-2009-8
[7] The Verge (2025). Martin Eberhard slams Elon Musk and the Cybertruck. [online] Available at: https://www.theverge.com/2025/5/10/22432237/martin-eberhard-elon-musk-cybertruck-tesla-interview
[8] Motor1 (2025). Cybertruck owners launch Facebook support group amid criticism. [online] Available at: https://www.motor1.com/news/461099/cybertruck-owners-facebook-support-group/
[9] CNBC (2025). Martin Eberhard compliments Elon Musk for transforming Tesla. [online] Available at: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/15/martin-eberhard-compliments-elon-musk-for-transforming-tesla.html
- In the future, Tesla's more affordable Model Y variant, enabled with Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability, is planned for release in North America.
- The timeline for the production and delivery of Tesla's affordable car program has seen a shift,with the initial $25,000 vehicle project cancellation in favor of self-driving robotaxis, as reported by Reuters.
- Tesla's history dates back to 2003, when it was co-founded by Martin Eberhard, Marc Tarpenning, JB Straubel, and Ian Wright, with notable events such as the lawsuit and settlement between Eberhard and Musk in 2009.
- Recent controversies surrounding Tesla include discontent from Eberhard about the direction of the company and criticisms of the Cybertruck design by various media outlets.
