Tesla patent describes a Starlink antenna integrated into an electric vehicle roof

A Tesla patent application lays out a method for building an antenna - potentially a Starlink antenna - directly into the roof of an electric vehicle. There has been no official announcement, but the filing shows the concept is being actively explored.

Starlink’s range of services is already broad. Alongside its home subscription, it sells packages for boats, motorhomes, and aircraft (which is being rolled out across Air France’s fleet). Starlink also partners with certain telecoms operators to deliver 4G connectivity via satellite in not-spot areas. It could even evolve into a fully fledged mobile network operator by using its own spectrum. On top of all that, Starlink could also work with Tesla to offer satellite connectivity through an antenna integrated straight into the roof.

What the Tesla patent application says about a roof-integrated antenna

So far, nothing has been formally announced. Even so, a Tesla patent application indicates the idea is gaining traction. Filed by Tesla, the document describes - in some examples - “integrating overhead electrical modules and components, including antennas, directly into the roof structure, thereby enabling clear communication with external devices and satellites.”

The patent also sets out a structure intended to improve occupant protection in a crash. From a design and manufacturing perspective, it additionally details an assembly process that could help automate the production line.

Will Tesla launch an electric vehicle with integrated Starlink?

For now, this remains only a patent application. Companies such as Starlink hold a vast number of intellectual property filings that never make it into products. Even so, this kind of solution could appeal to drivers who regularly cover long distances and may pass through not-spot areas along the way.

Starlink’s growth, SpaceX revenue, and IPO rumours

This patent filing is surfacing at a pivotal moment for Starlink. Estimates suggest Starlink is now SpaceX’s main source of revenue. Starlink’s subscriber numbers continue to rise and, at this point, SpaceX is reportedly considering a stock market listing. According to rumours, the IPO could give Elon Musk’s company a market capitalisation of $1,500 billion.