Intel Repositions As Foundry Powerhouse With SpaceX And Tesla’s Terafab Deal: Retail Cheers The Move

Terafab is a collaboration between Tesla and SpaceX that will bring chip design, production, packaging, and testing into a single integrated facility.
In this photo illustration, a close-up of a printed circuit board (PCB) is seen, while the Intel logo is displayed on a screen in the background. (Photo by Nikos Pekiaridis/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
In this photo illustration, a close-up of a printed circuit board (PCB) is seen, while the Intel logo is displayed on a screen in the background. (Photo by Nikos Pekiaridis/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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Shivani Kumaresan·Stocktwits
Updated Apr 07, 2026   |   11:30 AM EDT
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  • The deal marks a shift in Intel’s role from a traditional chipmaker to a core manufacturing backbone supporting Musk’s broader AI ecosystem.
  • Terafab will target an annual output exceeding one terawatt of computing power.
  • Intel’s U.S.-based manufacturing footprint in Ohio and Arizona strengthens supply chain resilience.

Intel Corp. (INTC) has unveiled a strategic partnership with Elon Musk’s SpaceX, xAI, and Tesla Inc. (TSLA) to advance the development of next-generation silicon fabrication technology. 

The deal, announced in a post on the X platform, marks a strategic pivot that positions Intel not just as a chipmaker but as the central foundry for Elon Musk’s integrated AI, robotics, and space initiatives.

What Is Project Terafab? 

Elon Musk introduced Terafab in March, describing it as “the most epic chip-building exercise in history.” The new semiconductor facility, a joint effort between Tesla and SpaceX, will consolidate chip design, manufacturing, packaging, and testing under one roof, aiming to deliver more than one terawatt of computing power annually.

Terafab will feature two dedicated fabrication lines for separate chip architectures, enabling new chip versions to be produced and tested in under a week.

“Either we make Terafab, or we will be stuck at the ~20% chip/memory output growth per year of the current industry,” Musk said.

Intel’s Technical Edge And Advantages

Intel brings several advantages to Terafab, including Backside Power Delivery (PowerVia) for ultra-high-performance AI chips, advanced chiplet stacking using Foveros and EMIB packaging, and domestic manufacturing sites in Ohio and Arizona that safeguard supply chains against geopolitical instability. 

This ensures Musk’s AI and robotics ambitions can scale securely within the United States. Intel stock traded over 1% higher on Tuesday morning. 

According to a CNBC report, Intel has built a reputation for top-tier PC and server CPUs, but its approach sets it apart from many competitors. Unlike companies such as Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) and Nvidia (NVDA), which rely on external foundries for chip production, Intel handles both the design and fabrication of its processors and is also exploring manufacturing chips for other firms.

How Did Retail Traders React? 

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around the stock remained in ‘extremely bullish’ territory amid ‘high’ message volume levels. 

INTC’s Sentiment Meter and Message Volume as of 09:45 a.m. ET on Apr.7, 2026 | Source: Stocktwits
INTC’s Sentiment Meter and Message Volume as of 09:45 a.m. ET on Apr.7, 2026 | Source: Stocktwits

A Stocktwits user expressed optimism about the stock’s growth following the Terafab deal. 

INTC stock has gained over 40% year-to-date. 

Also See: President Trump Stokes Market Nervousness With Iran Ultimatum, Warns ‘A Whole Civilization Will Die Tonight

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