Photos taken in the Los Angeles neighborhood show the latest developments in Elon Musk’s project, which he first announced in an X-post in 2018. What appears to be a two-story building with a shiny metal facade now stands on the vacant lot where construction began last September.
Tesla’s Diner and Drive-In Theater is located in Hollywood. AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/Getty Images
Former Tesla employee Alex Ingram shared footage of construction in April, when he was the company’s chief designer.
The company has remained tight-lipped about the project, but Bloomberg reported that the site will include a Supercharger station with 28 stalls and two movie theaters that can accommodate over 200 people. The screens will show movies that last 15 to 30 minutes – about the time it takes to charge a Tesla vehicle.
A project description cited by the outlet states that guests will be able to watch the films from two screens: the rooftop seating area or from their Tesla vehicles.
When Musk first mentioned the project six years ago, he described it as an “old-school drive-in, roller skating and rock restaurant.”
Tesla has filed an application with the U.S. Trademark Office to use the trademark in the restaurant industry starting in 2021, but the company did not submit plans for a 24-hour Supercharger station to Los Angeles authorities until 2022.
Elon Musk described the Tesla Supercharger station as “futuristic.” AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/Getty Images
In August 2023, Musk posted about the project again, writing: “Our futuristic Tesla diner (Grease meets the Jetsons with Supercharging) in LA should be ready later this year.”
Although Musk’s sphere of influence spans multiple industries, his decision to open a diner and drive-thru will take him into the world of immersive experiences. These personal, hands-on experiences are resonating with consumers still grappling with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
It’s a world dominated by companies like Disney, which owns several theme parks and brands around the world. But others are vying for a piece of the pie, too. Next year, Netflix House locations will open in two shopping malls in the US, reflecting the media company’s ambitious plan to meet fans in person, rather than just seeing them on a screen.
Several Tesla charging stations already have amenities like vending machines and lounges, but this project could be an attempt to turn charging stations themselves into desirable destinations.
Tesla representatives did not immediately respond to Business Insider’s request for comment.
