Tesla's Cybercab Promotion Sparks Lawsuit Over 'Blade Runner 2049' Image

Burbank, USATue Oct 22 2024
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Elon Musk and his car company, Tesla, along with Warner Bros. Discovery, were hit with a lawsuit. The suit, filed by Alcon Entertainment, the producer of 'Blade Runner 2049', claims that they used an AI-generated image from the film without permission to promote Tesla's robotaxi concept, the Cybercab. The event, held at Warner Bros. Discovery's studio lot in Burbank, California, was meant to showcase the Cybercab. Alcon says it denied Tesla's request to use the image, but Tesla went ahead anyway. The image was shown during a live stream, with Musk struggling to explain its relevance. The lawsuit argues that this was a significant financial theft, as Alcon is in talks with other car brands for potential partnerships. The suit also mentions concerns about Elon Musk's political views, suggesting they could complicate brand partnerships. Musk has promised a fully autonomous vehicle for years, but Tesla has not yet produced a safe driverless car. The Cybercab, planned for 2027, is said to cost under $30, 000.