Tesla Releases its Patents to Encourage Electric Vehicle Production

In a bold move, unlike any of its competitors, Tesla announced earlier this week that it would release the patents to its industry-leading electric vehicle innovations. In a press release from yesterday, CEO Elon Musk stated, “Tesla Motors was created to accelerate the advent of sustainable transport. If we clear a path to the creation of compelling electric vehicles, but then lay intellectual property landmines behind us to inhibit others, we are acting in a manner contrary to that goal. Tesla will not initiate patent lawsuits against anyone who, in good faith, wants to use our technology.” As the annual production rate of gas-powered cars continues to overshadow the small initiative Tesla and other electric car manufacturers are working vigorously to achieve, it seems as if we may never take Earth’s carbon crisis seriously. Musk believes his decision will expedite and encourage the development of electric-powered vehicles, enticing larger manufacturers to jump on board. It’s a very humble realization to say the least, akin to the Microsoft versus Macintosh clash in the 1990s. Yet, some wonder if this is all just a marketing ploy to get companies to buy into its battery format or charging infrastructure, and/or a possible hint to a deal with BMW.