April 2, 2025 — In a shocking statement, Elon Musk reportedly warned that Zimbabwean inventor Maxwell Chikumbutso’s self-powering electric vehicle (SPEV)—a car allegedly running on radio waves without charging—could “destroy the entire [automotive] industry” 911. The claim has ignited fierce debate: Is this a genuine technological revolution or another perpetual motion hoax?
The Controversial Invention
Chikumbutso, founder of Saith Technologies, claims his Saith FEV defies physics by harnessing ambient radio frequencies to power a 160 kW electric motor (matching Tesla’s performance) while also acting as a 15 kW mobile generator for homes 911. Key “breakthroughs” include:
- No charging stations or batteries: Purportedly eliminates reliance on lithium-ion batteries, a cornerstone of Tesla’s supply chain 11.
- “Microsonic Energy Device”: A proprietary system converting radio waves into usable energy, though scientists dismiss it as violating thermodynamics 511.
- Chinese partnership: Collaboration with automaker KAIYI to mass-produce the SPEV in Zimbabwe, challenging global EV leaders 59.
Musk’s Alleged Reaction
While Musk hasn’t publicly commented, unnamed sources suggest Tesla executives are “monitoring the situation closely” 11. The threat? A technology that could:
- Obsolete charging networks, including Tesla’s Superchargers.
- Undermine battery dominance, destabilizing a $1.31 trillion industry 11.
- Shift EV manufacturing to Zimbabwe and China, bypassing Western supply chains.
Skepticism and Scandals
Chikumbutso’s claims face intense scrutiny:
- Patent rejections: U.S. authorities reportedly denied his applications for violating physics laws 11.
- Debunked past claims: His 2015 “perpetual motion” car was exposed as a staged demo with no independent verification 34.
- No peer review: Scientists demand proof of radio wave energy amplification, which current tech can’t achieve beyond microwatt levels 35.
Industry Implications
If real, the SPEV could:
- Decimate Tesla’s market share by offering a “forever-charged” alternative.
- Disrupt geopolitics, reducing reliance on lithium from China (60% of global supply) 11.
- Spark legal battles over unverified “free energy” claims 511.
Conclusion: Revolution or Ruse?
While Zimbabwe’s government hails Chikumbutso as a genius 9, the scientific community remains unconvinced. Musk’s alleged warning—whether strategic hype or genuine concern—highlights the high stakes.
