Sacramento, Calif. – The moment we’ve all been waiting for has arrived – in a thrilling conclusion to the “Coolest Thing Made in California” competition, Tesla’s Model Y emerged as the undisputed champion, solidifying its place as the pinnacle of California innovation. The announcement was made at the prestigious California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) MakingCA Conference on National Manufacturing Day.

The Coolest Thing Made in California competition, hosted by CMTA has been a celebration of the state’s unwavering spirit of innovation. Over the past four weeks, over 90,000 votes were counted from the public as the competition has captivated Californians and beyond, showcasing the remarkable products that define the Golden State’s inventive excellence.

“The first-ever Coolest Thing Made in California competition is a testament to the state’s innovation and diverse manufacturing industry,” said Lance Hastings, CEO & President of CMTA. “Tesla’s Model Y is a prime example of the groundbreaking work happening in California. Congratulations to Tesla and all the finalists for their remarkable contributions to our state’s economy.”

The Model Y, an all-electric compact SUV, represents the forefront of California’s technological prowess and commitment to sustainability. Tesla’s innovative electric vehicles have been at the forefront of the automotive industry’s transformation. The vehicle beat out Carmazzi Caramel Corn’s popcorn made in Sacramento, Millennium Space Systems’ Victus Nox made in El Segundo, and Northrop Grumman’s James Webb Space Telescope made in Redondo Beach.

California’s Lt. Governor presented the award on Friday.

“California is the birthplace of many iconic creations and groundbreaking technologies. From aerospace to agriculture, biotech to clean tech, entertainment to the internet and beyond, our state’s inventive spirit has left an incredible mark on the world,” said Lt. Governor Kounalakis.

The MakingCA Conference, held on National Manufacturing Day, was a fitting platform to announce the competition’s winner. This day not only celebrates the state’s manufacturing achievements but also underscores the vital role manufacturing plays in California’s economy, which employs 1.3 million people and contributes $310 billion to the state’s annual GDP.

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About CMTA

The California Manufacturers & Technology Association has advocated for pro-growth laws and regulations before the California legislature and administrative agencies since 1918. The total output from manufacturing in California is $300 billion per year, roughly 10 percent of the total economic output of the state. Manufacturers employ 1.3 million Californians paying wages more than $25,000 higher than other non-farm employers in the state. For more information, visit CMTA’s website.