24
Elon Musk’s Car Revealed - What Irish Fans Need to Know
Ever wondered Elon Musk car when you’re strolling down Grafton Street or grabbing a coffee at a Dublin cafe? While the Irish market loves a good story, the real fascination lies in the futuristic rides the tech billionaire owns - and how that sparks a wave of T‑shirt designs across the island.
Who is Elon Musk and Why Does His Ride Matter in Ireland?
Elon Musk is a South African‑born entrepreneur who heads Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink and The Boring Company. His public persona and daring product launches have turned every new vehicle he owns into a headline, and Irish fans are no exception. From the historic streets of Galway to the tech hubs of Dublin’s Silicon Docks, Musk’s cars have become conversation starters in pubs, on university campuses, and even in the design studios of local T‑shirt printers.
What Cars Does Elon Musk Actually Drive?
Contrary to some rumors, Musk doesn’t stick to one model. Over the past few years his garage has featured a rotating fleet:
- Tesla Model S - the flagship sedan that set the benchmark for performance EVs.
- Tesla Model X - the SUV with falcon‑wing doors that Musk calls his “family car”.
- Tesla Cybertruck - the polarising angular pickup he unveiled in 2023, still awaiting full production.
- A custom Tesla Model 3 - a more modest, but still high‑tech, daily driver he has been spotted using for short trips.
He also owns a vintage 1978 Ford Mustang he kept for nostalgia, but the focus has shifted to electric performance.
Why the Tesla Model S Stands Out for Irish Fans
When we talk about Musk’s cars, the Tesla Model S dominates the conversation. Here’s why Irish enthusiasts give it extra love:
- Range for Coastal Drives - The Long‑Range version can travel over 400 miles on a single charge, comfortably covering the scenic Wild Atlantic Way from Donegal to Cork.
- Performance - 0‑60 mph in under 2.5 seconds makes it feel faster than most Irish motorbikes on the N11.
- Charging Network - Tesla’s Supercharger stations are expanding in Ireland, with fast chargers at Dublin‑Port Tunnel, Cork Airport, and the Shannon area.
- Tech Integration - Features like Autopilot and over‑the‑air updates align with Ireland’s growing appetite for smart mobility.
How Irish Car Culture Meets Musk’s EVs
Ireland’s automotive scene has long been dominated by Fiats, Skodas, and the occasional Honda. Yet the surge in electric vehicle registrations - up 78 % year‑on‑year in 2024 - shows a shift. When Musk’s Tesla Model S appears on the roads of Kilkenny or Limerick, it serves as a benchmark for local drivers considering an EV.
Local dealers such as BMW Dublin and Electric Avenue Motors in Cork often reference Musk’s cars when advising customers on performance expectations. Even the **Irish Times** ran a feature titled “Musk’s Model S: Is It Worth the Irish Tax?” highlighting vehicle registration tax (VRT) differences between electric and combustion engines.
From Car to Closet: Elon Musk‑Inspired T‑Shirts in Ireland
Fans love to wear what they admire. Dublin’s Design District and Galway’s Wearables Workshop have launched limited‑edition T‑shirts featuring stylized outlines of Musk’s Model S and Cybertruck. Here’s how you can snag one:
- Local Print Shops - Places like PrintPixel on Cork’s South Mall offer on‑demand printing with Irish‑made cotton.
- Online Irish Stores - Websites such as tees.ie list “Elon Musk Car” designs that ship across the island.
- Pop‑Up Markets - During events like Dublin’s Tech & Design Expo, vendors showcase “Space‑Age” tees alongside the latest gadgets.
Many of these shirts incorporate QR codes that link to real‑time updates on Tesla’s software releases - a fun way to blend fashion with tech.
Comparing Elon Musk’s Cars to Popular Irish Vehicles
| Model | Range / Fuel Economy | 0‑60 mph | Price (EUR) | Irish VRT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model S Long‑Range | 650 km (WLTP) | 2.5 s | ≈ €115,000 | €0 (exempt for EVs) |
| Tesla Model 3 Standard | 430 km | 5.6 s | ≈ €48,000 | €0 |
| Ford Focus 1.5 EcoBoost | ~60 mpg (combined) | 9.0 s | ≈ €25,000 | €6,500 |
| Skoda Octavia 1.4 TSI | ~55 mpg | 9.5 s | ≈ €24,000 | €5,800 |
| Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI | ~65 mpg | 8.2 s | ≈ €27,000 | €7,200 |
The table shows why many Irish buyers eye Musk’s EVs despite the higher sticker price - zero VRT and lower running costs make a compelling case over a five‑year ownership period.
Practical Tips: Buying a Tesla in Ireland Inspired by Elon Musk’s Choices
If Musk’s car lineup has you dreaming of a Tesla, here’s a quick checklist for Irish shoppers:
- Check Supercharger Access - Use the Tesla app to locate the nearest fast charger; Dublin’s new Supercharger at The Marker Hotel is a popular stop.
- Apply for Home‑Charging Grants - The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offers up to €600 for residential chargers.
- Consider VRT Savings - All-electric models enjoy a zero‑VRT exemption, dramatically reducing upfront cost.
- Factor in Insurance - Companies like Aviva Ireland provide specialist EV coverage; premiums are typically 10‑15 % lower for zero‑emission cars.
- Plan for Service - Tesla service centres now operate in Dublin and Cork; book appointments via the app to avoid long waits.
FAQ - All the Answers You Might Need
What is Elon Musk’s primary car?
He most often drives a Tesla Model S for its range and performance, though he also uses a Model X and a Cybertruck for specific needs.
Can I buy the same model in Ireland?
Yes. Tesla’s Irish website sells the Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y. Delivery usually takes 4‑6 weeks and includes a 7‑year warranty.
How much does a Tesla cost after Irish VRT?
Electric cars are exempt from VRT, so you only pay the vehicle price, SEAI grant (if eligible), and standard registration fees. A Model S starts around €115,000.
Where can I find Elon Musk‑themed T‑shirts in Ireland?
Check local print shops like PrintPixel in Cork, online stores such as tees.ie, and pop‑up stalls at tech events in Dublin. Many designs feature the sleek silhouette of the Model S or the angular Cybertruck.
Is the Tesla Supercharger network reliable across Ireland?
The network now covers major routes: Dublin‑Cork, Dublin‑Galway, and the N2 corridor. Most stations offer 250 kW chargers, topping up a Model S in about 30 minutes.
Wrapping Up: Why Elon Musk’s Cars Matter to You
Whether you’re a Dublin commuter, a Kerry road‑trip lover, or a Galway student buying your first T‑shirt, Musk’s vehicle choices provide a glimpse into the future of Irish driving. They set performance benchmarks, showcase the benefits of zero‑emission tax breaks, and inspire local fashion. So next time you spot a sleek white Model S cruising past the River Liffey, you’ll know it’s more than a celebrity stunt - it’s a sign of where Ireland’s roads are headed.
