In an exciting development for sustainable technology, former Tesla executive Drew Baglino has established a new heat pump startup named Sadi Thermal Machines. This venture marks Baglino's second entrepreneurial endeavor since departing Tesla.
Founded in June 2025, Sadi Thermal Machines is headquartered in Scotts Valley, California, sharing space with Heron Power, another startup initiated by Baglino that specializes in solid-state transformers. The company's name pays homage to Nicolas Léonard Sadi Carnot, a French physicist whose groundbreaking work laid the groundwork for modern thermodynamics and heat pump technology.
While details about Sadi are still emerging, early indications suggest that the startup employs several former Tesla team members, highlighting Baglino's commitment to leveraging experienced talent in the field. Baglino's extensive background includes nearly twenty years at Tesla, where he contributed to various innovations, including the original Roadster and advanced energy storage solutions like the Powerwall and Powerpack.
During his tenure, Baglino played a pivotal role in developing Tesla's heat pumps, contributing to patents for advanced thermal management systems that optimize energy efficiency in electric vehicles. These systems utilize innovative features such as three-way and four-way valves, allowing for precise temperature control of critical components, which enhances overall vehicle performance.
Baglino's vision for Sadi Thermal Machines aligns with the broader goal of accelerating the transition to sustainable energy. He expressed optimism about creating heat pumps that are efficient and reliable for diverse environmental conditions, indicating a potential shift towards residential and commercial applications.
In discussions about the feasibility of developing a residential heat pump, Baglino noted that while the challenges are significant, the potential for innovation in this space is immense. He stated, "Making a heat pump for the home would be easier. Way harder in a vehicle," emphasizing the constraints faced in automotive applications.
Elon Musk, Tesla's CEO, previously hinted at the company's interest in residential HVAC solutions during a 2022 earnings call, suggesting that such developments could be on the horizon. Baglino's new venture, Sadi Thermal Machines, seems poised to explore this potential further, embodying a commitment to sustainable technology.
As Sadi Thermal Machines embarks on its journey, it represents a promising step forward in the quest for innovative energy solutions that could significantly influence the future of sustainable living.