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Posted on 07/08/2026 4:13:42 PM PDT by SmokingJoe
Yes, there have been multiple cases where Tesla accused former programmers/engineers of stealing source code or trade secrets and allegedly using or taking them to competitors (or rivals). Tesla has filed several lawsuits over the years alleging this.
Notable Examples Guangzhi Cao (2019): A former Autopilot engineer. Tesla sued him for copying over 300,000 files of Autopilot source code before joining Chinese EV startup Xiaopeng Motors (Xpeng), a direct competitor. He allegedly uploaded it to personal iCloud and devices. The case settled in 2021 with an undisclosed payment from Cao to Tesla.
Zhongjie “Jay” Li (2025): A former engineer on Tesla’s Optimus humanoid robot program. Tesla sued him and his startup Proception Inc., alleging he downloaded sensitive robotic tech (e.g., hand sensors) onto personal devices right before leaving and used it for his rival company.
Other cases: Tesla has sued or pursued actions against ex-employees for stealing manufacturing/automation scripts (e.g., Alex Khatilov in 2021), battery tech, and more, sometimes involving poaching by rivals like Rivian or others.
There have also been internal sabotage claims (e.g., Martin Tripp). These are allegations in lawsuits—some settled without full admissions of wrongdoing, and outcomes vary.
Trade secret theft is a common issue in tech/auto, especially with high-value autonomous driving, robotics, and manufacturing IP. Tesla actively monitors and litigates these. Chinese competitors have been frequent targets of such claims due to talent movement.
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Are these former programmers all Chinese? It looks like we have found the problem.
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