Tesla is gearing up for its highly anticipated Robotaxi Day event, scheduled for Thursday night at a Hollywood studio, with significant expectations from analysts and investors alike. However, some industry observers feel these expectations may be overly ambitious.
At the event, the company is expected to showcase the “Cybercab,” a vehicle designed to operate without traditional driving controls such as a steering wheel or pedals. This unveiling occurs as CEO Elon Musk seeks to reposition Tesla as a leader in artificial intelligence and robotics, especially as the company faces challenges in selling its existing electric vehicle lineup.
Despite the concerns, certain analysts believe the event could mark a pivotal moment for Tesla’s future in autonomous vehicle technology. Daniel Ives from Wedbush Securities described the day as potentially groundbreaking, signaling a new phase for Tesla in the realms of autonomous driving and AI development.
On the other hand, critics such as Bryant Walker Smith, a legal expert in autonomous vehicles, argue that Tesla has not yet proven its driving software can function safely without human intervention, raising doubts about the company’s readiness to fully unveil its technology. He expressed frustration over the media’s focus on the announcements rather than the underlying issues of Tesla’s technology readiness.
While some analysts expect Musk to reveal details about the Cybercab and possibly a more affordable Model 2 electric car, they do not anticipate significant advancements in self-driving capabilities. The ongoing scrutiny of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving software, which has faced delays and regulatory investigations, adds to the skepticism surrounding the event.
Musk’s political affiliations, particularly his support for Republican candidates and causes, have also been noted as potentially alienating to some segments of Tesla’s customer base, further complicating the brand’s position in the market.
Despite past overoptimistic projections regarding the rollout of robotaxis, supporters like Ives remain hopeful for new insights and updates on Tesla’s vision for autonomous transportation. The event promises to also provide news on Tesla’s Optimus humanoid robot, slated for release in 2026.
The Robotaxi Day event will take place at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California, on Thursday, October 10, and will be livestreamed on X starting at 7 p.m. PT.