Elon Musk spoke virtually at ASML's annual technology conference on June 11, 2026, to discuss Terafab, a planned large chip fabrication plant in Texas [1, 2]. The facility aims to supply Tesla, SpaceX, and Musk's AI venture xAI with advanced chips, including logic and memory components [1, 2].
SpaceX plans to partner with Intel at Terafab, focusing on developing lithography masks and prototyping advanced chip designs [1]. ASML, a Dutch company, is the sole manufacturer of the extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines required for cutting-edge chipmaking, each costing around $400 million [2].
If built out fully, Terafab’s estimated cost ranges from $55 billion to $119 billion, making it one of the largest semiconductor projects in the U.S. [2]. SpaceX secured tax incentives for the facility in a contentious hearing in Grimes County, Texas, despite local opposition [2].
During the conference, ASML CEO Christophe Fouquet held a fireside chat with Musk. Musk praised ASML as "arguably the greatest company in Europe" and said it should be "treasured and supported" [1, 2].
However, some ASML employees expressed internal criticism of Musk's appearance at the event, citing concerns about his political views and alleged "Nazi sympathies," which they said conflicts with ASML's commitment to neutrality [2].
ASML plans to open a new campus at its Eindhoven headquarters by 2028 to expand its operations [2].
Musk first announced Terafab plans in March 2026, signaling ambitions to boost chip production for his companies [1, 2]. The next major public milestone will be SpaceX’s upcoming initial public offering, which Musk also discussed during the ASML event [1, 2].
