Elon Musk, the tech visionary behind Tesla, SpaceX, and Neuralink, is known for pushing the boundaries of innovation. But beyond rockets and electric powertrains, many people ask a seemingly simple question: What car does Elon Musk drive? While the obvious answer might be a Tesla, the truth is much more layered. From ultra-rare sports cars to customized electric vehicles, Musk’s car collection reflects his evolution as an entrepreneur and the future he envisions for transportation.
In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into what car does Elon Musk drives, how his collection has changed over time, what these choices tell us about his personality, and the broader impact of his vehicle decisions on the automotive world. We’ll explore various electric, gas-powered, and even futuristic concept cars associated with Musk. So buckle up as we explore the garage of one of the most influential tech titans of our generation.
What car does elon musk drive? Elon Musk mainly drives a Tesla Model S Plaid, one of the fastest electric vehicles on the market. However, he has also been known to use a Cybertruck prototype, Model X, and even historic cars like a Ford Model T and Jaguar E-Type. His vehicle choices reflect both his passion for innovation and his love for iconic automobiles.
Elon Musk’s Current Favorite Is the Tesla Model S Plaid
When discussing what car does Elon Musk drive, the Tesla Model S Plaid often tops the list. It’s not just any car—it’s a groundbreaking piece of engineering and a testament to Tesla’s innovation. The Plaid edition offers mind-blowing acceleration, capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in under 2 seconds, making it one of the fastest production cars in the world.
This car aligns with Musk’s vision for sustainable and high-performance transportation. Unlike traditional sports cars that rely on combustion engines, the Model S Plaid is 100% electric. It includes advanced features like Autopilot, a yoke-style steering wheel, and minimalistic interior design, which are all trademarks of Musk’s futuristic mindset.
The car is equipped with Tesla’s latest battery technology, giving it a range of over 390 miles on a full charge. That makes it ideal for long trips and convenient for everyday driving—a perfect match for someone with a packed schedule like Elon Musk.
Musk has publicly praised the car multiple times and even used it during events and testing. His endorsement of the Plaid model isn’t just about brand loyalty; it’s a statement about the future of electric vehicles.
Interestingly, despite being the CEO of Tesla, Musk rarely opts for flashy customization. His Model S Plaid is often seen in simple colors like black or midnight silver, emphasizing function over flamboyance. This practical approach aligns with Musk’s personal style and business ethos: focus on performance and purpose.
While he may have access to any Tesla he wants, the Model S Plaid seems to be his go-to vehicle, especially when attending high-profile events or arriving at new product launches. It symbolizes the perfect blend of luxury, speed, sustainability, and innovation—everything Elon Musk represents.
Elon Musk’s Journey Into Electric Car Driving
Elon Musk’s journey with electric cars began well before Tesla became a household name. His transition from gas-guzzling supercars to EVs marks a pivotal shift in modern automotive history.
Early Fascination with Speed
Before Elon Musk became synonymous with electric vehicles, he had a strong affinity for performance and luxury cars. Among his most notable possessions was a McLaren F1, a legendary gas-powered supercar revered for its unmatched speed and engineering. This passion for high-performance automobiles laid the groundwork for his future vision of redefining transportation.
Enter the Tesla Roadster
Musk’s journey into electric driving began in earnest with the launch of the original Tesla Roadster in 2008. As Tesla’s first production vehicle, the Roadster demonstrated that electric cars didn’t have to compromise on style or power. Musk personally drove the Roadster, using it not just for commutes but also to make a bold statement—electric vehicles could be thrilling and viable alternatives to traditional gas-powered cars.
Embracing the Model S and More
In 2012, Musk transitioned to the Tesla Model S, which became his primary vehicle. Over the years, he has continued to upgrade to advanced variants like the Model S P100D and later the high-performance Plaid edition. Each step represented his deeper commitment to innovation.
A Test Driver for the Future
Today, Musk is often seen behind the wheel of prototype Teslas such as the Cybertruck or the next-gen Roadster. These serve as daily drivers and testing grounds, embodying his mission to lead the world toward a sustainable, electric future.
Elon Musk’s Most Noteworthy Vehicles
Besides asking what car does Elon Musk drive now, many are curious about his full automotive journey.
- McLaren F1: High-performance, ultra-rare sports car. Musk famously crashed it.
- Lotus Esprit “Wet Nellie”: A James Bond submersible car bought at auction.
- Tesla Roadster (original): First mass-produced EV Musk drove extensively.
- Tesla Model X: Chosen for its practicality when transporting his children.
- Ford Model T: Gifted to him and symbolizes the original auto revolution.
- Jaguar E-Type: One of Musk’s childhood dream cars.
These cars not only reveal his personal taste but also demonstrate a mix of futuristic and nostalgic preferences.
Why Elon Musk’s Car Choices Matter
Elon Musk’s vehicle decisions hold weight far beyond personal preference. They influence market trends, shift public perception, and often align with his mission to revolutionize transportation.
When Musk is seen driving a prototype Cybertruck or Model S Plaid, it makes headlines. This exposure increases curiosity and sales, turning cars into cultural phenomena. Musk’s cars act as moving billboards for Tesla, showcasing what’s next in EV tech.
His earlier vehicles, like the McLaren F1 and Jaguar E-Type, show his respect for automotive heritage. However, transitioning to fully electric Teslas underlines his belief in progress. Musk could choose any car in the world, yet he drives vehicles that reflect his company’s values.
Driving an electric car as a lifestyle leader helps normalize it for the public. If the world’s richest man chooses electric over gas, that sends a powerful message.
Moreover, Musk’s cars reflect a blend of luxury, sustainability, and performance. They illustrate that owning an electric vehicle isn’t a compromise but an upgrade.
In conclusion, what car does Elon Musk drive is more than a curiosity—it’s a symbol of a movement.
The Future of Elon Musk’s Garage and Automotive Vision
Elon Musk’s garage isn’t just about cars—it’s a glimpse into the future of mobility. From electric trucks to space-bound rovers, his vision pushes every boundary.
Driving the Tesla Cybertruck
Elon Musk has frequently been seen behind the wheel of the Tesla Cybertruck prototype. With its angular, stainless-steel design and futuristic build, the Cybertruck stands as a testament to Musk’s willingness to challenge automotive norms. It’s more than just a vehicle—it’s a rolling statement of innovation and disruption, hinting at what future transportation might look like.
Anticipating the Next-Gen Roadster
The upcoming Tesla Roadster is set to redefine electric performance, boasting record-breaking acceleration and a sleek, space-inspired design. Musk has expressed great enthusiasm for this model and is expected to use it as both a personal ride and a promotional symbol once it launches. It represents the next evolution in Tesla’s high-performance electric lineup.
The Rise of Autonomous Mobility
As Tesla inches closer to full self-driving capabilities, the concept of Musk personally driving may eventually become obsolete. With autonomy at the forefront of Tesla’s roadmap, the idea of “what car does Elon Musk drive” may shift toward what he’s riding in rather than driving himself.
Beyond Earth: Mars and Utility Visions
Looking even further ahead, Musk’s vision extends to Martian vehicles through SpaceX. Meanwhile, on Earth, he has teased new Tesla utility vehicles, including electric vans and pickups, which could soon join his ever-evolving garage.
Bottom Line
The question what car does Elon Musk drive uncovers far more than just vehicle models. It reveals a pattern of futuristic thinking, a commitment to sustainability, and a nod to automotive history. From driving Teslas to owning one-of-a-kind classic cars, Musk’s garage mirrors his ambitious personality. Each car choice tells a story, and each ride carries a message. Whether it’s a Cybertruck rolling down the street or a vintage Ford Model T tucked away, these vehicles reflect a larger mission. They represent the journey toward cleaner, smarter, and more innovative transportation for the world.
FAQ’s
Does Elon Musk only drive Teslas?
Mostly yes—he’s often seen in various Tesla models, but he also owns and occasionally showcases classic cars and futuristic concept vehicles.
What is Elon Musk’s favorite Tesla?
The Tesla Model S Plaid is considered his current favorite, known for its incredible speed, performance, and cutting-edge features.
Has Elon Musk ever driven gas-powered cars?
Yes, long before fully embracing electric vehicles, Musk drove notable gas-powered cars like the McLaren F1 and Jaguar E-Type.
Why does Elon Musk drive prototype Teslas?
He drives early versions of Tesla models for hands-on, real-world testing, product feedback, and to generate hype and trust in the brand.
Will Elon Musk stop driving once full autonomy launches?
Possibly. He has hinted that Tesla’s future is one where humans become passengers, with the car doing all the driving.
