update: A tweet from Elon Musk (in response to a BBC article similar to the OP) showing his correspondance with one of the dive team about the subs development.

update: A tweet from Elon Musk (in response to a BBC article similar to the OP) showing his correspondance with one of the dive team about the subs development. As of a few days ago they were urging Musk to continue with the project because they though it might be needed. https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1016684366083190785 https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1016684366083190785 Also this is interesting: Jiradette Kerdsri: I agree with @elonmusk , actually my team was asked from Thai authorities to design a capsule similar to his prototype. But our design is still on the paper while he already has a finish field prototype. Really admire your inspiration https://twitter.com/Jiradett/status/1016690284619599873 https://twitter.com/Jiradett/status/1016690284619599873