The Wall Street Journal cites sources suggesting that Tesla has initiated an internal probe into potential impropriety by its CEO, Elon Musk. The electric vehicle manufacturing giant’s board allegedly became concerned that Musk might be leveraging company resources for the construction of a residence in the vicinity of the Gigafactory in Austin, informally known as “Project 42.” The project involves an expenditure of several million dollars on special glass, an amount substantial enough to raise employee eyebrows last year. Limited liability corporations linked to Musk and other executives are known to have secured large tracts of land in the region.
Project 42’s architectural concepts revolve around a “twisted hexagon” or a glass cube akin to Apple’s 5th Avenue store. The proposed design for the residence includes living spaces such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and a kitchen, as per insider information.
It remains uncertain what the investigation uncovered or its current status. Tesla dissolved its PR department some years ago and Musk, at the time of reporting, has yet to respond to the allegations. The board apparently sought to determine Musk’s involvement and whether company manpower was allocated to the house construction. Last year, Bloomberg reported on the glass purchase but was unaware of the board’s investigation or the specifics of Project 42.
Corporate executives frequently enjoy perks like private jet usage, but the policies governing these privileges differ. Tesla, in particular, has a strict policy requiring a board committee audit for any expenditure above $120,000 involving a related person, such as the CEO.
This isn’t the first time a renowned tech executive has been investigated for alleged misuse of company resources. Meta previously probed its departing COO, Sheryl Sandberg, over accusations of using company resources for personal purposes. Musk’s case, however, has drawn attention due to his status as a prominent CEO.
Musk is familiar with legal challenges. He remains engaged in a dispute with the Securities and Exchange Commission over financial data tweeted, and previously weathered a defamation lawsuit from British cave explorer Vernon Unsworth over baseless “pedo guy” accusations.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Elon Musk investigation
What is Project 42?
Project 42 refers to an alleged initiative by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, suspected of using company funds for building a glass house near the Austin-area Gigafactory. The project apparently involves a significant investment in special glass.
Who conducted the investigation into Elon Musk’s alleged impropriety?
The board of Tesla launched the investigation into Musk’s possible misuse of company funds for personal purposes.
What are the specific design concepts of the alleged house?
The design concepts for the house included either a “twisted hexagon” or a glass cube reminiscent of Apple’s 5th Avenue store, featuring personal spaces like bedrooms, bathrooms, and a kitchen.
Is there any response from Elon Musk or Tesla?
As of the time of reporting, neither Tesla, which disbanded its PR department years ago, nor Elon Musk has made a comment on the report.
Has there been a similar case of investigation into high-profile tech executives?
Yes, Meta previously investigated its departing COO, Sheryl Sandberg, over accusations she used company resources for personal ends, such as wedding planning or attempts to suppress a critical news story about her ex-partner Bobby Kotick.
More about Elon Musk investigation
- Tesla’s Official Website
- Elon Musk’s Twitter
- Securities and Exchange Commission
- Wall Street Journal Report
- Apple’s 5th Avenue Store
- Bloomberg’s Report on the Glass Order
- Meta’s Investigation into Sheryl Sandberg
3 comments
Strange… wouldn’t a billionaire like Musk pay for his own house… somethings fishy here!
Wonder if the house will be solar powered too? You know, glass walls, tons of light. Makes sense, eh?
it’s hard to know what’s true anymore. Until Musk or Tesla says somethin, it’s just rumors. Right?