Tesla has secured permits to construct an unconventional “Diner and Drive-In Movie” Supercharger facility in Los Angeles. The retro-futuristic charging hub with dine-in cinema represents the realization of an idea first teased by Elon Musk back in 2018.
Tesla received approval from the LA Department of Building and Safety for the unique project. Architectural plans come courtesy of Stantec, with PCL Construction Services serving as contractor.
The 9,300 square-foot 1950s-style complex will feature a two-story main building housing a restaurant upstairs spanning over 3,500 square feet. Down below, a 5,000+ square foot outdoor seating area will double as a drive-in movie theater.
The first floor restaurant includes a kitchen, bar, and both indoor and outdoor dining areas. Upstairs, the restaurant has theater-style seating for movie viewing along with more tables.
The entire outdoor section reserves 34 parking spaces for 29 Supercharger and 5 AC charging stations. Giant LED screens will play movies visible from parking spots and the upstairs balcony.
In signature retro diner fashion, Tesla’s establishment will offer drive-thru service for food ordering without leaving your vehicle.
Back in 2018, Elon Musk first floated the idea of a combined diner and drive-in Supercharger on Twitter. With permits now approved, Musk’s vision is becoming a neon-lit reality in the heart of LA.
Blending sustainable transport with entertainment, the project shows Tesla charging can be so much more than a mundane pit stop. As the company continues expanding its Supercharger network globally, expect more creative and stylish station designs like this retro-futuristic concept.
Images by @HowardModels