02 Apr 2026
On 29 March, students from International Business School Suzhou (IBSS) at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University visited the Tesla GIGA Museum (Fengxiang Centre) in Shanghai. Accompanied by Dr Liang Wen, Module Leader of SMO302 Organisational Change and Development, and Yixin Zhang from the IBSS Student Development and Support (SDS) team, more than 50 students on the module took their learning beyond the classroom into a leading industry setting. The visit gave them first-hand insight into the innovation philosophy and future vision of one of the world’s leading technology companies.
As the centre of the visit was the Tesla GIGA Museum, which offered an immersive experience that went far beyond a traditional showroom. Through a replica of the GIGA factory, an introduction to the company’s energy ecosystem, and interactive displays on artificial intelligence, the museum showcased Tesla’s identity as “more than a car company”. Guided by Tesla staff, students took part in a structured visit that combined observation with themed presentations, giving them a practical understanding of Tesla’s approach to innovation.
The visit began with a session titled “Tesla’s Secret Blueprint”, in which the Tesla team introduced the company’s philosophy of “first principles” thinking. Students learned that Tesla is not merely an automaker but a technology enterprise committed to accelerating the world’s transition to sustainable energy. From advances in battery technology to the pursuit of extreme efficiency in factory automation, the company applies physics-based thinking across product design and manufacturing.
During the museum tour, students stepped into a replica of the GIGA factory, where they observed the entire process from raw materials to finished vehicles. Interactive models and displays illustrated Tesla’s strong focus on manufacturing excellence. In the energy section, Tesla presented a complete closed-loop system: capturing clean energy from nature, storing it through energy storage solutions, and using it to power electric vehicles and homes. This gave students a clear picture of the business model behind sustainable energy.
The artificial intelligence section was a highlight of the visit. Students learned about Tesla’s Dojo supercomputer and the Tesla Bot humanoid robot. Tesla staff explained how these cutting-edge technologies are designed to unlock human potential through AI. Students also enjoyed a light show featuring Tesla vehicles, experiencing first-hand the blend of technology and artistry.
A dedicated Tech Talk and Q&A session gave students to engage deeply with Tesla representatives on topics ranging from research and development and business models to talent needs. Tesla staff shared insights into the interdisciplinary skills needed in a fast-growing technology company, offering valuable perspectives on future career development.
Dr Liang Wen, Module Leader of SMO302 Organisational Change and Development, noted: “Company visits are a vital part of IBSS’s practice-based teaching approach. As a global benchmark for technological innovation, Tesla offers students an exceptional window into the dynamics shaping global business. Through such hands-on experiences, we aim to bridge classroom knowledge with real-world industry practice, equipping students with the business insights they will need in the future.”
The visit was supported by Tesla’s Fengxiang Centre in Shanghai, with both sides expressing initial interest in exploring further collaboration in talent development and internships. IBSS will continue to deepen its engagement with industry leaders, creating more opportunities for students to connect with cutting-edge business practices and preparing them to become globally minded business professionals.
撰稿：韦旖旎
编辑：吴一菲
02 Apr 2026