엘론 머스크가 TSMC와의 다양한 테라팹 칩 제조 협업 및 파운드리 기회에 대한 협의를 확인했다.

TSMC and Elon Musk's Terafab are in discussions about a potential collaboration under which TSMC would build and operate a semiconductor production facility exclusively serving Tesla, SpaceX, and xAI. Musk confirmed the discussions in an X post on Saturday, saying "Just discussions, but something may come of it," while TSMC has remained tight-lipped on the matter.

Two potential structures are being considered. Under "Plan A," the most probable arrangement, TSMC would own and operate the facility while SpaceX or Terafab could invest in the venture, commit to purchasing a guaranteed volume of chips, or pursue both options. This model resembles TSMC's existing joint ventures—JASM in Japan and ESMC in Germany—where local partners provide capital and demand while TSMC contributes process technology and operational control.

"Plan B" would place SpaceX in majority control of Terafab with TSMC providing operational expertise and process technologies while investing less capital. This structure would be unprecedented for the world's leading contract chipmaker. The exact ownership arrangement remains under discussion.

The collaboration raises significant questions about Intel's current role. Intel is slated to supply its 1.4nm-class 14A process technology to Terafab for chips serving SpaceX, Tesla, and xAI. Should TSMC become involved, it would likely bring its own advanced node, potentially sidelining Intel's 14A technology.

TSMC's advanced packaging capabilities add another dimension to the partnership. Terafab could manufacture chips in Texas using Intel's 14A process, then package them locally if TSMC becomes involved. Additionally, while Intel holds a broad cross-patent license agreement with TSMC, Terafab does not—meaning chip production using Intel's node could infringe TSMC patents, a risk potentially mitigated by closer TSMC involvement.

Ultimately, Musk's priority is securing an uninterrupted and surplus supply of custom silicon for SpaceX, Tesla, and xAI to support their AI, automotive, and space operations—not building a foundry to compete with Intel Foundry, Samsung Foundry, or TSMC itself. This broad strategic goal suggests Musk will remain flexible on both tactical and structural arrangements.