DETROIT — Anticipation builds as Tesla prepares to unveil its highly awaited robotaxi at a Hollywood studio this Thursday evening. However, some analysts and investors maintain a cautious outlook.
The electric vehicle manufacturer, which began marketing its “Full Self-Driving” software nearly a decade ago, is expected to present the so-called “Cybercab,” potentially lacking traditional controls such as a steering wheel and pedals.
This event is crucial for CEO Elon Musk, who aims to shift investor perceptions towards artificial intelligence and robotics, especially as the company faces challenges with its aging lineup of electric vehicles.
Analysts predict that this could signify a momentous advancement for Tesla as it inches closer to launching a long-anticipated robotaxi service powered by AI technology.
Yet, critics caution that Musk has not yet demonstrated the safety of Tesla’s autonomous systems when functioning without a human driver prepared to intervene.
“The repetitive question seems to be ‘What will Tesla announce?’ rather than ‘What evidence does Tesla have?’” remarked a legal expert specializing in autonomous vehicles.
The expert further argues that true demonstrations of the self-driving technology should occur on public roads rather than in controlled environments.
Without significant advancements in autonomous technology, the upcoming reveal may simply showcase a vehicle design that is no longer novel, as other companies have already introduced similar models.
Industry analysts are generally skeptical about the event’s potential outcomes. While some anticipate the reveal of the Cybercab along with a lower-cost electric vehicle, projections for advancements in self-driving technology remain subdued.
“We expect the unveiling to provide minimal insights and cater primarily to Tesla’s staunch supporters,” an analyst noted, emphasizing that Musk’s commentary regarding Full Self-Driving will be scrutinized given the history of delays and ongoing concerns regarding the system.
Tesla’s vehicle range is showing signs of stagnation, and it may not see significant updates until late next year at the earliest. Additionally, the politicization surrounding Musk is believed to be impacting Tesla’s appeal among Democratic consumers in the U.S.
Musk has been vocal in his support for certain political figures and causes, which may further complicate the brand’s image.
For over five years, Musk has suggested that an extensive fleet of robotaxis would soon be available, enabling Tesla owners to generate income by having their vehicles operate autonomously.
However, Musk has revised his outlook on the timeline for implementing autonomous driving, acknowledging past predictions may have been overly optimistic.
Despite skepticism from some circles, bullish analysts view the forthcoming robotaxi event as a pivotal growth opportunity for Tesla. They foresee comprehensive updates on the robotaxi model and breakthroughs in Full Self-Driving and AI.
These analysts also predict a strategic rollout plan for the robotaxis within the next year, potentially accompanied by a ride-sharing application and innovations intended to transform urban transportation.
The announcement also coincides with ongoing investigations by U.S. safety regulators into the safety protocols of Full Self-Driving and Autopilot, amid concerns about driver attentiveness.
Additionally, previous incidents involving Tesla’s autonomous systems have raised serious safety questions, leading to product recalls and regulatory scrutiny.
As the industry watches closely, the upcoming unveiling could change the trajectory for Tesla and its future in autonomous transportation.
