LOS ANGELES: Tesla CEO Elon Musk showcased on Thursday a long-awaited robotaxi with two gull-wing doors and no steering wheel or pedals and surprised with robovan, betting on a shift in focus from low-priced mass-market cars to robotic vehicles. In addition to its sleek design, the Tesla Cybercab robotaxi incorporates advanced self-driving technology. #TeslaCybercabRobotaxi
At a glitzy unveiling, Musk reached the stage in a “Cybercab” to be produced from 2026 — eventually in high volume — and priced under $30,000. He then introduced the robovan which can carry up to 20 people though offered few further details.
Musk acknowledged his tendency to be optimistic with timelines, often missing projections. He did not specify how quickly Tesla could scale robotaxi production. Additionally, regulatory challenges and a strategy to outpace competitors like Waymo remain unclear.
Analysts suggest it could take years to establish robotaxis due to safety and reliability concerns. Accidents raise questions about the technology’s readiness. Additionally, the system struggles with scenarios like bad weather, complex intersections, and pedestrian behavior.
Musk, wearing a leather jacket, spoke to crowds at Warner Bros studio near Los Angeles about autonomous cars. He claimed these vehicles could be 10 times safer than humans and drive five to ten times longer.
“The autonomous future is here,” Musk said. “With autonomy, you get your time back.” Musk had previously said he planned to operate a fleet of self-driving Tesla taxis that passengers can hail through an app. Individual Tesla owners would also be able to make money on the app by listing their vehicles as robotaxis, he had said.
The event — titled “We, Robot” in an apparent nod to the “I, Robot” science-fiction short stories by American writer Isaac Asimov — echoed Musk’s comment that Tesla “should be thought of as an AI robotics company” rather than an automaker. #TeslaCybercabRobotaxi
Tesla Cybercab Robotaxi: Pioneering Sustainable and Autonomous Transport Solutions
With zero emissions and cost-effective solutions, it aims to provide eco-friendly and affordable transportation. Therefore, this innovation aligns with Tesla’s commitment to sustainability and efficiency. Furthermore, the Tesla Cybercab robotaxi is set to compete with other autonomous vehicles. Its unique features are expected to attract global attention.
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