Elon Musk unveils Cybercab at Tesla robotaxi event | BBC News

Summary

Elon Musk recently unveiled a highly anticipated robo taxi, featuring no steering wheel or pedals, with production set to start in 2026. However, Tesla's stock fell nearly 7% due to skepticism surrounding the timeline and technology for autonomous vehicles. Experts highlight that while Tesla is making strides towards unsupervised full self-driving capabilities next year, the actual deployment of robo taxis is still years away. The potential of fully autonomous vehicles represents a significant shift in transportation, allowing passengers to relax without a driver, emphasizing Tesla's vision for the future of mobility.

Takeaways

• 📉 Tesla's share price fell nearly 7% after an event showcasing new vehicles.
• 🚗 Elon Musk introduced a robo taxi with no steering wheel or pedals, production set for 2026.
• ⏳ Musk is often optimistic about timelines, raising investor skepticism.
• 🚐 A self-driving robo van capable of carrying 20 people was also presented at the event.
• 🤖 The event featured humanoid robots, including some that performed dancing.
• 📊 Seth Goldstein from Morning Star expressed concerns about the uncertainty of Tesla's technology.
• 🔍 Investors were looking for more concrete details about Tesla's plans, which were not fully addressed.
• ⚠️ Full self-driving technology still requires drivers to be alert, indicating limitations in current models.
• 🔄 The development of autonomous vehicles has faced challenges, with some previously entering the market and having to retract.
• 🌟 Achieving level five autonomy could significantly change the future of transportation, allowing passengers to relax during travel.

Q & A

What was the market reaction to Tesla's showcase of the robo taxi?

Tesla's share price was down nearly 7% ahead of the market open, indicating skepticism among investors about the company's plans.

What are some key features of Tesla's new robo taxi?

The robo taxi features two Gullwing doors, and notably, it does not have a steering wheel or pedals.

When does Elon Musk expect production of the robo taxi to start?

Elon Musk announced that production of the robo taxi will start in 2026.

What significant technology did Tesla plan to launch next year?

Tesla plans to launch the full self-driving (FSD) unsupervised version of its technology in California and Texas next year.

What is the main concern investors have regarding Tesla's technology?

Investors are concerned about the timeline and uncertainty surrounding the technology's effectiveness and safety.

What does the term 'level five autonomy' refer to?

Level five autonomy refers to a fully autonomous vehicle that can operate without any human intervention, allowing passengers to relax during the ride.

Why is solving autonomy significant for Tesla?

If Tesla can successfully launch a robo taxi with full autonomy, it would revolutionize transportation by allowing passengers to engage in other activities while the vehicle drives itself.

What challenges have other autonomous vehicles faced in the market?

Other autonomous vehicles have encountered operational issues, leading to necessary pauses or recalls after entering the market.

What potential impact does Tesla's success in autonomy have on the future of transportation?

Tesla's success could lead to a significant shift in transportation, enabling a future where vehicles operate without drivers, transforming how people commute and travel.

Did the event showcase any other innovations besides the robo taxi?

Yes, the event also showcased a self-driving robo van capable of carrying 20 people and included presentations of humanoid robots, some of which performed dances.