NIKO

Project Overview

Formerly trading as Tesla Consultants since 1995, the firm faced growing confusion with Elon Musk’s Tesla. Proud of their name’s link to Nikola Tesla, they wanted to preserve that heritage while creating a clearer, future-proof identity.

Through workshops, staff surveys, and client interviews, we uncovered their core strength: making complex engineering challenges simple through expertise and collaboration. The naming direction focused on continuity, leading to Niko—a modern, approachable nod to Nikola Tesla without the baggage of “the other Tesla.”

Industry Context

The power design industry relies on rare, senior-level expertise. Niko stood out as “best of breed,” with unmatched experience across substations and high-voltage projects. Their reputation rested on both technical mastery and open, approachable client relationships.

The Challenge

The name “Tesla Consultants” created brand confusion and diluted equity. The company needed a distinctive identity that honoured its legacy, captured its unique way of working, and positioned it for the future.

Strategy

Our evidence-led process combined competitor analysis, stakeholder workshops, staff surveys, and client interviews. This revealed a consistent truth: Niko’s expertise turned complexity into clarity, delivered with professionalism and warmth.

Naming & Creative

We built on their Tesla heritage with Niko—short, modern, and rooted in Nikola Tesla’s name. The refreshed logo evolved their sine wave mark, integrating it into the “N” for a clean, confident look. A restrained colour palette reinforced professionalism and simplicity.

Results

Launched in August 2023, Niko retained the essence of Tesla Consultants while eliminating confusion. Staff and clients welcomed the change, recognising it as both a respectful tribute and a bold step forward into a new era.