Co-Founder & First CEO of Tesla, EV Innovation Pioneer & Former Director of Electric Vehicles at Volkswagen
Martin Eberhard’s Biography:
Martin Eberhard is an American engineer, inventor and business executive best known as the Co-Founder and first CEO of Tesla, Inc., where he helped spark the modern electric vehicle movement. Drawing on deep expertise in electrical engineering, product innovation and clean technology, Martin played a central role in proving that electric cars could outperform traditional vehicles in performance, efficiency and design. His leadership at Tesla reshaped the global automotive landscape and demonstrated that sustainable technology could be both desirable and commercially viable.
Martin’s early life and education shaped his passion for engineering and innovation. He earned both his B.S. in Computer Engineering (1982) and M.S. in Electrical Engineering (1984) from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He began his career at Wyse Technology before co-founding Network Computing Devices in 1987, serving as Chief Engineer through the company’s successful IPO in 1992. In 1996, he founded NuvoMedia with Marc Tarpenning, pioneering early e-reader technology as Chairman and CEO until its acquisition by Gemstar in 2000.
In 2003, Martin and Marc Tarpenning co-founded Tesla Motors, where Martin served as CEO and Chairman until 2007. His strategic vision for Tesla was built on three principles: electric cars should outperform petrol cars, lithium-ion batteries would unlock long-range EV travel, and high-performance electric vehicles could appeal to even the most devoted car enthusiasts. Under his leadership, Tesla developed the first Roadster, a breakthrough achievement that proved an electric sports car was possible and desirable.
Following Tesla, Martin served as Director of EV Development at Volkswagen Group and went on to hold leadership roles in several Silicon Valley technology ventures, including Chairman and CTO of Tiveni, Inc. and Inevit Inc. He continues to serve on advisory boards for innovative cleantech startups and lectures globally on sustainable energy, battery technology and reducing carbon fuel dependence. His contributions have earned him recognition in the Engineering Hall of Fame and multiple awards for innovation and industrial design.
Why Hire Martin Eberhard?
Martin Eberhard is an engaging and insightful speaker who brings extraordinary first-hand experience in innovation, sustainable technology and electric vehicle development. As the co-founder and first CEO of Tesla, he offers unparalleled perspective on how bold ideas can transform entire industries. His clarity of vision, practical engineering mindset and proven track record in disruptive entrepreneurship provide valuable lessons for organisations navigating technological change or pursuing breakthrough innovation. Having lectured around the world on reducing carbon fuel use and accelerating sustainable progress, Martin is uniquely equipped to inspire audiences seeking forward-thinking leadership and actionable ideas for the future.
Martin Eberhard’s Career Highlights:
Below showcases Martin Eberhard’s inspirational career from engineering to co-founding Tesla:
- 2025 – Elected to the National Academy of Engineering for contributions to electric vehicle innovation and entrepreneurship.
- 2021 – Completed tenure as Chairman and CTO of Tiveni, Inc., driving advancements in innovative tech solutions.
- 2018 – Became Chairman and CTO of Tiveni, Inc., focusing on next-generation engineering ventures.
- 2015 – Inducted into the Engineering Hall of Fame for contributions to electric vehicle innovation.
- 2014 – Received the Alumni Award for Distinguished Service from the University of Illinois.
- 2009 – Served as Director of Electric Vehicles at Volkswagen Group, advancing EV development.
- 2006 – Won the Green Global Product / Industrial Design Award for sustainable technology innovation.
- 2003 – Served as Co-Founder and CEO of Tesla Inc., leading development of the first Tesla Roadster.
- 2003 – Co-Founded Tesla Inc., pioneering long-range electric vehicle technology.
- 2000 – NuvoMedia acquired by Gemstar after Martin served as Chairman & CEO.
- 1996 – Founded NuvoMedia, one of the world’s first dedicated e-reader companies.
- 1987 – Co-founded Network Computing Devices and served as Chief Engineer through its IPO.
Videos
Martin Eberhard’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Martin Eberhard is an exceptional choice for organisations seeking a visionary voice on innovation, sustainability and the future of technology. As the co-founder and first CEO of Tesla, he brings unparalleled insight into disruptive thinking, product development and building world-changing companies from the ground up. His ability to translate complex engineering principles into compelling, accessible narratives makes him highly engaging for technical and non-technical audiences alike. For events focused on clean energy, entrepreneurship, mobility, or transformative innovation, Martin Eberhard is a standout speaker who consistently informs, inspires and challenges audiences to think differently about the future.” – Amelia Neate
Speaking Topics
Martin Eberhard’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Tesla, Inc.
- Engineering
- Product design
- Business management
- Artificial intelligence
- Driverless cars
- Technology and innovation
- Creating a business
How Much Does Martin Eberhard Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Martin Eberhard?
The cost of hiring Martin Eberhard depends on your event format, location and duration. For an accurate quote tailored to your needs, contact a London Keynote Speakers Agency booking agent for expert guidance.