Tesla's Tenuous Journey: Navigating Robotaxis and Tumbling EV Sales
Tesla and CEO Elon Musk are facing challenges as they pursue autonomous driving amid declining EV sales. Musk announced plans to launch robotaxis in several U.S. states, aiming for significant market expansion by next year. Regulatory hurdles, particularly in California, pose significant obstacles to these ambitions.
Tesla, under the leadership of Elon Musk, is navigating through tough times as the company faces falling electric vehicle sales and a still-nascent autonomous driving business. During an earnings call on Wednesday, Musk revealed Tesla's progress in obtaining regulatory approval to launch robotaxis in various U.S. states, including California and Florida.
Musk predicts that these operations will reach half the U.S. population by year-end, with a larger rollout expected next year. Currently, the company operates a limited fleet in Austin, Texas, that is not accessible to the general public. Obtaining complete regulatory approval, particularly in the stringent California market, remains a formidable challenge.
Investor scrutiny is growing due to Musk's ambitious robotaxi timeline. A consistent drop in core auto sales has led to further questions about the feasibility of these plans. California regulators noted that Tesla has yet to apply for all necessary permits, while other states like Arizona are seeing quicker progress with permit applications.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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