Musk’s Tesla Embroiled in Fresh Legal Battle Over AI-Generated Image Controversy

Tesla’s We, Robot Presentation Causes Controversy with Lawsuit from Blade Runner 2049 Producers

In a twist, Tesla’s recent We, Robot presentation has hit a snag. One of the production companies behind the visually stunning Blade Runner 2049 is taking Elon Musk and Tesla to court for alleged copyright infringement. The suit stems from the high-tech event, which showcased the Cybercab and Robovan, as well as the latest version of its Optimus humanoid robot.

The October 10 event, held at the Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) Studios in Hollywood, featured striking imagery that allegedly drew from Blade Runner 2049 using generative-AI and stills from the seven-year-old sci-fi movie. But here’s the thing: Alcon Entertainment, the production company behind Blade Runner 2049, says it never gave Tesla permission to use any of its intellectual property.

According to the lawsuit, Tesla and WBD asked for permission to use an iconic still image from Blade Runner 2049 just hours before the event, but Alcon rejected the request. The company explained its decision, emphasizing that it didn’t want to be associated with Elon Musk, Tesla, or any of the company’s projects, citing concerns about Musk’s behavior.

Despite this, the imagery from Blade Runner 2049 reappeared on screen during the We, Robot live stream – this time generated using an AI image generator. Even more striking, Musk referenced the movie franchise, hinting at a future he hopes will be "fun and exciting," rather than the dystopian one depicted in many sci-fi films.

The case has yet to be commented on publicly by the accused parties, and it’s unclear what level of damages Alcon is seeking. As the story unfolds, one thing’s for certain: this controversy will only add fuel to the ongoing debate about AI, creativity, and ownership in the age of generative technology.

Here’s a timeline of the key events:

• October 10: The We, Robot presentation takes place at WBD Studios in Hollywood
• Hours before the event, Tesla and WBD ask Alcon for permission to use a still image from Blade Runner 2049
• Alcon rejects the request, citing concerns about associating with Elon Musk and Tesla
• The event goes on, featuring imagery generated by AI and stills from Blade Runner 2049
• Alcon files a lawsuit against Tesla and Elon Musk, alleging copyright infringement

As the drama unfolds, we’ll keep you updated on the latest developments in this story.