🌋 Elon Musk Stuns with Tesla’s Robotaxi, Robovan, and New Optimus
posted 11 Oct 2024
At the “We, Robots” event on October 10 at Warner Brothers Studio in Burbank, California, Elon Musk unveiled the Tesla Robotaxi. This autonomous electric vehicle, modeled after the futuristic Cybertruck, is called the Cybercab.
Musk first introduced the ambitious concept of a driverless taxi network a few years ago, with hopes of these cars hitting the streets by 2020. However, as with many innovations, the timeline was extended.
Now that promise has come to life, with the presentation showcasing a working prototype of the Robotaxi. The vehicle is completely devoid of traditional controls—no steering wheel or pedals—and relies entirely on Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system. The interior resembles that of the Model 3 and Model Y, with a central screen controlling all vehicle functions.
The Cybercab features signature butterfly doors and two comfortable seats.
Cybercab by Tesla. Source: Electrek
In addition to the Cybercab, Musk introduced another impressive project—the Tesla Robovan. This multi-passenger vehicle can accommodate up to 20 people or large cargo. The Robovan, with its large panoramic windows and spacious sliding doors, offers a futuristic feel, making the ride feel almost like a space journey.
One of the notable features of both the Cybercab and Robovan is the lack of standard charging ports. Instead, these models will use induction charging. Musk also noted that with the rise of autonomous taxis, large parking lots could be transformed into green spaces and parks.
Robovan by Tesla. Source: CarExpert
Musk emphasized that the cost of using autonomous transport will be so low that it could rival premium public transportation. He projected that the Cybercab would cost less than $30,000.
He also assured that these robotic vehicles will be significantly safer than human-driven cars, as artificial intelligence doesn’t get distracted or fatigued. Production of the Cybercab is expected to begin by 2027. Musk also highlighted that all current Tesla models will be capable of receiving full self-driving functionality.
In addition to the vehicles, the event showcased new versions of the humanoid robot Optimus. As always, Musk turned the presentation into a show, with Optimus challenging attendees to play rock-paper-scissors.
Musk promised that robots like Optimus would become an integral part of daily life within the next few years.
However, it's important to remain realistic.
Despite the exciting presentation, Tesla’s journey toward mass adoption of autonomous vehicles is still far from complete. The company must secure regulatory approval, and the FSD system needs to prove its complete safety.
Musk remains optimistic, predicting that by next year, we could see fully driverless Teslas on the roads in California and Texas. However, the shift to fully autonomous transportation is a complex process that requires not only technological advancements but also changes in legislation and societal acceptance.
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