A video circulating on social media has sparked intrigue among Tesla enthusiasts, as it allegedly showcases a top-secret electric van prototype intended for The Boring Company. The footage, uploaded to Twitter by Las Vegas-based content creator Jacob Orth, has ignited speculation about Tesla’s foray into the people-moving sector.
While the authenticity of the video remains unverified, close examination reveals compelling evidence supporting its validity. The vehicle prominently displays the unmistakable Tesla logo on its steering wheel, suggesting a genuine connection to the renowned electric vehicle manufacturer. However, it should be noted that the prototype appears to be in the early stages of development, boasting an expansive glazed area and an uncanny resemblance to an autonomous shuttle bus.
Impressively, this enigmatic van boasts seating for a total of 12 individuals, including the essential driver’s seat. Observers have struggled to discern whether the prototype conceals any concealed wheels beneath its level floor. Orth tantalizingly describes the vehicle as a “secret Tesla van prototype designed for Elon Musk’s Vegas Loop,” potentially hinting at an exclusive collaboration between The Boring Company and Tesla.
Leaked video of the secret Tesla van prototype designed for Elon Musk's Vegas Loop, from inside The Boring Company's Las Vegas headquarters pic.twitter.com/A3A3XJ0UTx
— Jacob Orth (@JacobsVegasLife) July 10, 2023
Interestingly, this intriguing passenger vehicle bears similarities to a concept initially unveiled by The Boring Company in 2017, which provided a glimpse into a 12-passenger vehicle tailored for the esteemed Las Vegas Loop system.
Whether this leaked video represents an authentic breakthrough or not, it marks the first substantial mention of a Tesla electric van, minibus, or robotaxi. Tesla’s visionary CEO, Elon Musk, initially alluded to these ventures in the Tesla Master Plan Part 2 back in 2016. Musk’s grand vision sought to electrify not only heavy-duty trucks but also “high passenger-density urban transport.”
Since then, Tesla has transformed Musk’s ambitions into reality with the launch of the Tesla Semi, catering to the realm of heavy-duty trucks in December 2022. However, the quest for high passenger-density urban transport is still underway, and murmurs about an electric minibus based on the Model X have surfaced in the past. Regrettably, that particular project failed to materialize.
In a bid to accommodate Musk’s plans for The Boring Company, discussions have swirled around the development of a van-like passenger vehicle. Presently, the tunnel system relies on Tesla Model Y and Model X vehicles. Nevertheless, Tesla has expressed the possibility of constructing a purpose-built 12-passenger vehicle for the LVCC Loop. Recent rumors strongly suggest that Tesla has diligently worked on a prototype tailored explicitly for The Boring Company.
While the video’s validity remains uncertain, its very existence raises eyebrows. Assuming the footage accurately captures Tesla’s clandestine creation, we anticipate further revelations in the forthcoming weeks and months. Notably, the level of access granted to the content creator implies that Tesla may have authorized the filming and dissemination of the video, adding an intriguing layer of credibility to the leaked material.
