Tesla just unveiled a pay package for Elon Musk that could make him the world’s first trillionaire if the company hits some truly staggering targets. The board plans to grant Musk 423.7 million additional shares of Tesla stock, worth $143.5 billion at today’s prices, but only if Tesla’s market capitalization climbs to $8.5 trillion — almost eight times its current value.

Already owning 410 million shares valued at $139 billion, Musk’s wealth could skyrocket even further. His combined holdings across Tesla, SpaceX, xAI, and other ventures put him at $378 billion today. Still, he won’t see the new shares unless Tesla meets ambitious operational and financial milestones, including a million humanoid robots in operation or adjusted operating income hitting $50 billion.

Musk’s vision for Tesla goes beyond cars. Plans for self-driving robotaxis and humanoid robots are central to his pitch to shareholders, promising both revenue growth and a transformational technological footprint. Yet skeptics warn these lofty targets are reminiscent of past promises Musk hasn’t fully delivered, like the elusive fully autonomous cars he’s touted for years.

The pay plan also ties to corporate control. Musk has publicly noted he needs roughly 25% voting control to comfortably pursue AI and robotics without risk of being overridden, revealing the personal stakes behind the incentive package. Analysts say this mix of ambition and self-interest is typical for Musk, though some question whether the scale of potential wealth is justified.

Tesla’s board defended the plan, noting that keeping Musk focused is essential given his multiple business and political interests. Simultaneously, succession planning is in place, ensuring the company isn’t overly dependent on a single visionary. Musk still receives no cash salary, with all compensation coming from stock and options — a stark contrast to other tech billionaires who rely on initial stakes rather than ongoing grants.

Market watchers are divided. Supporters see this as a bold step to cement Tesla’s leadership in AI and robotics, while critics worry about overvaluation driven more by Musk’s promises than performance. If Tesla succeeds, Musk wouldn’t just redefine personal wealth — he’d rewrite corporate ambition on a scale few can imagine.

Full story at CNN.