Tesla Models spell out a secret message that's hiding in plain sight

Published on Jul 19, 2025 at 3:23 PM (UTC+4)
by Daisy Edwards

Last updated on Jul 19, 2025 at 3:23 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by Amelia Jean Hershman-Jones

Tesla Models spell out a secret message that's hiding in plain sight

Did you know that all along, Tesla model names have been spelling out a secret message that’s been hiding in plain sight?

When you think it through, naming the models things like the Model 3, Y, X, and the S seems a bit random, as they didn’t come out numerically or alphabetically.

We know that Elon Musk has a bit of a penchant for enjoying naming things X, but it turns out that there has been some method behind the madness the whole time.

The solution to the secret message is a lot cheekier than you would anticipate, but it is clear that all along, the American brand has tried to get away with the subtle naughty messaging.

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What’s the secret message that the Tesla Models spell out?

Even though it’s no secret that the founder of Tesla is a big fan of naming things X, which makes the Model X EV no surprise, the other Tesla model names don’t make as much sense.

The Models X, 3, Y, and S seem to follow no rhyme or reason when it comes to naming rules, so you might be as shocked as we are to find out there is a method to the apparent madness.

Initially, Musk had his heart set on naming the models the SEXY lineup, but instead of the proposed Tesla Model E, we ended up with the Model 3.

A few months ago, it briefly looked like the moon was getting involved in Tesla branding, too.

The EV models are very S3XY

Musk’s original vision of the SEXY line-up was made slightly less naughty when the Model E was swapped to the Model 3.

We don’t know whether Musk changed his mind or Tesla was told by investors to clean up the name, but turns out that there was a very S3XY naming process going on at Tesla, and we didn’t know.

Daisy is a technology and automotive journalist covering artificial intelligence, consumer tech, Apple news, cryptocurrency, emerging technologies, and transportation innovation. Since joining the team in 2025, she has reported on everything from AI-powered startups and major iOS updates to viral car stories and the latest developments shaping transportation and the digital economy. Drawing on her background in automotive journalism and a degree in History and Journalism from Goldsmiths, University of London, Daisy specializes in breaking down complex topics into clear, engaging reporting for a global audience. Her work spans cutting-edge technology, innovative vehicles, and the people driving change across both industries. Daisy has gained first-hand access to some of the world's most talked-about technologies and innovators, including meeting Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot during its first European appearance in London. She has also discussed the future of space exploration with an astronaut, bringing unique insights and real-world perspectives to her coverage of emerging technology.