Tesla CEO Elon Musk revealed that the launch of its robotaxi will take more time than promised due to important design changes to the front face of the vehicle.
He also hinted at the possibility of adding more features to the vehicle as the company works to "show off" other things.
(Photo : Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
Read Also: Tesla is Unveiling Its Robotaxi Later Than Expected
Tesla Delays Robotaxi Until Further Notice
Following his announcement, Musk did not disclose the estimated timeline for its new vehicle's launch. Bloomberg News reported that Tesla is planning to introduce the robotaxi in October, instead of its initial August 8 schedule.
"Requested what I think is an important design change to the front, and extra time allows us to show off a few other things," Musk replied to an X post.
Previously, Wall Street analysts and Tesla investors shared that they already anticipated that the robotaxi's launch would be delayed. Existing robotaxi services have been facing various challenges from the regulators and technical issues in recent months.
Tesla Keeps Robotaxi Details Tight Ahead of Launch
Tesla has been very limited in giving out details about its new project. Musk, known for teasing features on his companies, only shared that the vehicles would be owned and operated by Tesla.
He also added that individuals would still be allowed to own the robotaxi. However, it would be rented out on Tesla's network.
The CEO first revealed his robotaxi ambitions for Tesla in 2022. He promised that his company would be able to mass-produce a robotaxi with no steering wheel or pedal by 2024.
Despite the news of the delay, Tesla saw a growth in shares after Musk publicly endorsed Donald Trump in the U.S. presidential race. A move that could help the company to secure regulatory approvals on its future vehicles.
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