SpaceX and Tesla's Terafab targets 2028 for volume chip production, Musk says
TSLA•SpaceX and Tesla's Terafab aims to begin volume chip production in the third quarter of 2028, though Elon Musk said the target is highly uncertain and aggressive. The project aims to produce 1 terawatt a year of computing power for AI and robotics, with a first test SRAM chip targeted for May or June next year.
1. Production targets
Terafab, the chip manufacturing joint venture between SpaceX and Tesla, aims to reach volume production by the third quarter of 2028, Musk said on a SpaceX conference call. He said the target has "big error bars" and described the schedule as "very aggressive." The project aims to produce 1 terawatt a year of computing power for AI and robotics.
2. Early chip testing
Musk said Terafab aims to have a functional first test chip using static random-access memory circuits around May or June next year at its research facility in Austin. Chip manufacturers commonly use SRAM circuits to refine manufacturing processes.
3. Equipment and partners
Musk did not directly say whether Terafab had ordered extreme ultraviolet lithography machines from ASML, but said the company appreciated ASML and other suppliers accelerating equipment deliveries. Intel said in April it would join the project, though the companies have not explained how the collaboration would work. Musk has also said Terafab is committed to operating the facility itself, following discussions about potential cooperation with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company.
