Samsung Signs Record $16.5B Foundry Deal with Tesla for AI6 Chip Production
Samsung Electronics has signed its largest-ever single foundry contract, valued at $16.5 billion (22.8 trillion KRW), with a global tech giant—now confirmed to be Tesla, following a revealing post by CEO Elon Musk on X.
The contract, which runs from July 24, 2025, to December 31, 2033, will see Samsung produce Tesla’s next-generation AI6 chips, which are expected to power Tesla’s autonomous vehicles and humanoid robots.
Musk Confirms Previously Confidential Deal
Although Samsung initially withheld the client’s identity due to a strict non-disclosure agreement (NDA), speculation grew after Musk posted on X:
“Under a ~$16.5B contract, a major Korean company will be dedicated to producing Tesla’s next-generation AI6 chips at our new Texas factory.”
Musk further stated that he would personally oversee production at Samsung’s Texas facility, which he described as conveniently located near his Austin residence. The CEO is well-known for his hands-on approach, having previously slept at Tesla assembly plants during production ramp-ups.
Production Oversight Raises Stakes for Samsung
The contract includes Tesla’s request for manufacturing oversight, meaning Musk and Tesla engineers will be actively involved in supervising chip production to ensure supply stability. While this collaboration could optimize efficiency, it also increases operational pressure on Samsung, which is already under scrutiny for its 2nm GAA yield challenges.
Musk added that the $16.5B figure is only a baseline, suggesting that actual chip production volume could far exceed the contracted value, given Tesla’s ambitious plans for autonomous vehicles and humanoid robots.
Competitive Implications in AI Chip Race
Tesla’s AI6 chips are expected to outperform current AI4 chips supplied by TSMC to companies like Google. Although TSMC is preparing to produce AI5 chips, Musk has emphasized that Tesla aims to leapfrog the competition with AI6.
However, analysts remain divided. While some see Tesla’s future projects as high-growth opportunities, others warn that the autonomous vehicle and robotics markets may not scale as quickly as Musk anticipates, potentially impacting chip demand.
With this contract, Samsung not only secures a long-term foundry client but also positions itself as a critical player in the AI semiconductor race, directly competing with TSMC and other leading foundries.
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