Tesla has formally announced that its “We, Robot” robotaxi event will take place October 10th in Los Angeles.
Invitations to the press indicate that the long-rumored event will reveal the “future of autonomy.” It’s expected to take place on the Warner Bros. studio lot, and might include a demonstration of the latest version of its humanoid Optimus robot.
The robotaxi presentation was originally penned in for August, but was pushed back as Tesla reworked the front design.
Details of the self-driving taxi are scarce. It’s believed to resemble the angular Cybertruck and get rid of the steering wheel and pedals. At least one disguised prototype has been spotted driving around the Warner Bros. studio.
Tesla and Elon Musk have been planning for full autonomy for years, and have made a Full Self-Driving (FSD) package available to EV buyers with promises that it would eventually provide completely driverless use. You could theoretically let your car carry other people when you aren’t using it. That hasn’t come to pass, and it’s now labeled as Full Self-Driving (Supervised) to make clear that you’ll still have to take control at some point.
A robotaxi event suggests that Tesla is closer to achieving real autonomy. However, it’s not certain just what level of driverless operation you can expect. It might be Level 4 autonomy, or completely hands-off driving in limited locations or conditions. Waymo, Baidu and other companies have Level 4 service in some cities.
No company has yet achieved Level 5, where the car can drive itself anywhere without help.
There’s a lot riding on this event. Tesla has had some disappointing quarters this year as EV deliveries have fallen short. The automaker has cut prices and otherwise provided incentives to spur sales. Still, customers and investors alike want some reassurances that Tesla’s long-term future is safe.
