What Would Thomas Edison Think of Tesla Company Today?

The relationship between Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla has long been the subject of debate. While they shared a mutual respect, their professional rivalry was intense, particularly in the realm of electrical power. Even if Edison were alive today, his thoughts on the modern Tesla Company would be quite interesting to explore. Let's delve deeper.

The Rivalry: AC vs DC

Their disagreement over the use of alternating current (AC) versus direct current (DC) power was the core of their professional feud. Tesla’s AC power was proven to be more practical for long-distance transmission, ultimately leading to it prevailing over Edison’s DC power. Interestingly, the main dispute was not as much between Edison and Tesla as it was between Edison and George Westinghouse, who embraced AC technology and invested significantly in it.

Popular Misconceptions

Many of the stories about Edison's behavior in relation to Tesla are often embellished or outright false. Experts studying Edison and Tesla have debunked many of these myths, such as the narrative that Edison was an evil hack. Both scholars acknowledge Tesla's brilliance, while also recognizing Edison's pragmatic and innovative business practices.

Personal Connections

Surprisingly, Edison and Tesla had more in common than you might think. They were even drinking buddies, often going to bars together, whether gay or straight, showcasing a level of camaraderie that is less often highlighted.

Edison's Relationship with Tesla Motors

Thomas Edison would likely have a passing interest in Tesla Motors. While it's true that the name Tesla was chosen for its historical significance, Edison might be intrigued by the company's focus on technology and innovation, especially considering his own background in the automotive industry. Additionally, Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, is known to be a fan of Edison, so their conversations could become quite enlightening.

The Offense of Name Appropriation

Edison would not be pleased if he learned that his rival's name, Tesla, was being used for profit without compensation. He would certainly crow about the fact that Tesla utilized his rival's brand without any royalties. However, he would also be distressed by the fact that Tesla’s name is now more prominently featured in the media than his own, nearly a century after his untimely passing.

Legacy and Business Disputes

Edison started his own company, Edison General Electric, which later merged to become General Electric. However, this company, which has historically had a dispute with Tesla in the form of their electric vehicle, the EV1, famously canceled the project in 2003. This led to the establishment of Tesla, much to Edison's chagrin. Thus, the legacy of the Edison-Tesla rivalry continues to this day.

Conclusion

While Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla had a complex relationship marked by both respect and rivalry, if Edison were alive today, his thoughts on Tesla’s company would be multifaceted. He would be impressed by the technological advancements, while also reacting to the use of his rival’s name and the shifting narrative in media. Regardless of his personal beliefs, one thing is clear: the Edison-Tesla rivalry continues to intrigue and captivate audiences.