The robotaxi era begins

INVESTORS TO WATCH CLOSELY

Tesla’s highly anticipated “We, Robot” event will be closely watched by investors and Wall Street in the hope that it will provide momentum for the stock.

According to Gene Munster, Managing Partner at Deepwater Asset Management, the name “We, Robot” is likely inspired by Isaac Asimov’s short story collection “I, Robot.” The event’s name has raised hopes that announcements will be made regarding Optimus and potentially an expanded family of robots.

The tech venture capitalist stated that these products would not be available for use for at least five years, and more likely ten:

“In other words, while it is important to hear what the company is thinking beyond automobiles, the essence of the event for investors revolves around the Model 2 and Robotaxi, which are set to be released within the next two years.”

Munster expects announcements regarding three different vehicles at the event:

Robotaxi: Tesla will likely show a physical prototype of the Robotaxi at the event. Munster expects the model to have a futuristic feel like the Cybertruck, with no steering wheel, pedals, or mirrors. The company will likely demonstrate its autonomous capabilities by summoning the Robotaxi via Tesla's ride-hailing app and maneuvering it along some sort of course or route.

Model 2 Electric Vehicle: The company led by Elon Musk will likely introduce the $25,000 Model 2 EV (also known as the Model A). The vehicle will share similarities with the Robotaxi but will feature a steering wheel, pedals, and mirrors, and will not require full self-driving to operate.

Cybervan: Musk could surprise with plans to launch a fully autonomous passenger van for 8-10 people (likely a Robotaxi XL). Munster said, "While the passenger van might be light on Tesla's sleek signature design, it will be heavy on leveraging autonomy for affordable transportation."

FEW DETAILS

Very little is known so far about the vehicle called Cybercab. The introduction of the Cybercab, which was announced to take place in August, was later postponed to October with a 'design change' announcement.

According to technology news sites, the vehicle will have two seats in the back and its doors will open in a butterfly-wing style.

Elon Musk has hinted that once completed, some robotaxis in Tesla's network will be owned and operated by the company, but that Tesla owners will have the option to rent out their vehicles through Tesla's network when they are not using them.