Sam Altman Demands $50K Refund for Delayed Tesla Roadster

BREAKING: Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, has publicly requested a $50,000 refund from Tesla for a Roadster he ordered back in July 2018. This request comes amid ongoing delays and frustrations surrounding the high-profile electric vehicle, which has yet to enter production.

In a striking post on X (formerly Twitter) titled “A tale in three acts,” Altman shared a screenshot of his original reservation confirmation for a $45,000 deposit on the second-generation Tesla Roadster. However, his follow-up email seeking to cancel the order and request a refund bounced back, leaving him without the money or the car.

Altman expressed his disappointment, stating, “I really was excited for the car! And I understand delays. But 7.5 years has felt like a long time to wait.” His frustration highlights the significant wait time for a vehicle that was once touted as a groundbreaking innovation in the automotive sector.

Initially unveiled in 2017, the new Roadster was described by Elon Musk as “the fastest production car ever made,” capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in under two seconds. Production was set to begin in 2020, but has faced multiple setbacks, leading to growing dissatisfaction among early backers like Altman.

During an earnings call in October 2024, Musk noted that while the design was nearing completion, Tesla was prioritizing its core mission of achieving a “sustainable energy future.” He acknowledged the frustration of Roadster deposit holders, thanking them for their patience as the company navigates through its production challenges.

As of now, neither Altman nor Tesla representatives have responded to multiple requests for comment regarding the status of the refund. This ongoing saga unfolds against the backdrop of a contentious legal battle between Altman and Musk over OpenAI, which they co-founded in 2015.

Altman’s subtle jab at Musk comes as tensions rise surrounding OpenAI’s transition to a for-profit model, a move Musk has publicly criticized. In a recent interview, Altman reflected on Musk’s legacy, stating, “For a long time, I looked up to him as an incredible hero… There are a lot of things about him that I think are traits I don’t admire.”

As this story develops, the implications of Altman’s refund request could resonate beyond the automotive world, potentially impacting Tesla’s reputation among high-profile investors and tech leaders. With OpenAI now restructuring and eyeing a public offering at a projected $1 trillion valuation, all eyes will be on how Altman’s narrative unfolds in light of these ongoing tensions.

Stay tuned for updates as we monitor this situation closely. The relationship between Altman and Musk continues to evolve, raising questions about the future of both Tesla and OpenAI.