On October 11, 2024, Tesla unveiled its new Robotaxi, an all-electric, fully autonomous vehicle designed without a steering wheel or pedals. This ambitious launch aims to position Tesla as a leader in both electric vehicles and artificial intelligence.
During the 'We, Robot' event in California, Elon Musk showcased a futuristic prototype, emphasizing that the Robotaxi would be '10 to 20 times safer' than human-driven cars. The expected cost of a ride is as low as $0.20 per kilometer.
The Robotaxi features unique design elements, including gullwing doors and an interior designed for two passengers. It utilizes wireless induction charging, reflecting Tesla's innovative approach.
However, the vehicle must still navigate regulatory approval, which could take several years, as current regulations require manual control mechanisms.
While Tesla leads in aggressive marketing of its semi-autonomous driving system, competitors like Waymo and Cruise have accumulated valuable urban driving data. Musk remains optimistic about the future of Tesla's autonomous technologies despite ongoing safety concerns and legal challenges related to its Autopilot system.
In addition to the Robotaxi, Tesla is developing Optimus, a humanoid robot priced between $20,000 and $30,000, further indicating its commitment to advancing smart technologies.