Why Elon Musk’s Self-Driving Vision Feels More Like Michael Scott than Tony Stark

Tesla and Elon Musk have long dazzled many with promises about “Full Self Driving” (FSD) technology. Since at least 2015, Musk has claimed autonomy for Teslas was just around the corner—yet here we are, years later, with little to show.

His many predictions—like driving fully self-sufficient from LA to Times Square—have consistently missed the mark. Year after year, Musk insists it’s only months away. Despite this, the excitement around Tesla seems unshaken, as if the media and investors conveniently overlook these broken promises.

Recently, Musk announced that “Robotaxis” are coming to Austin soon. However, reports reveal that there’s still confusion about how these vehicles will operate. Only 10 to 20 modified Model Ys will hit the streets. Moreover, these will not be fully autonomous; they’ll be monitored by remote operators who can take control if something goes awry.

In contrast, Waymo, a Google subsidiary, has successfully launched fully driverless taxis in various cities. With over 40 million miles driven on real roads, Waymo showcases a safe and reliable alternative to Tesla’s ongoing FSD challenges. Just a few days ago, Tesla’s head of self-driving admitted they are "a couple of years" behind Waymo.

The quest for self-driving cars isn’t new—it’s been pursued for over a century. Early concepts ranged from remote-controlled cars in the 1939 World’s Fair to the modern era’s use of advanced sensors. Waymo employs a hybrid method, utilizing cameras, detailed maps, and radar, leading to safe navigation through busy streets.

In stark contrast, Musk has consistently rejected the integration of lidar, a technology crucial for measuring distances and ensuring safety. He referred to it as a “fool’s errand” and eliminated radar from Tesla vehicles in 2021 to cut costs. This move alarmed engineers, as it increased the likelihood of accidents when cameras were compromised by rain or bright sunlight.

As a result, Tesla’s seemingly “vision-only” approach has led to increased crashes and near misses. Drivers wonder: are Musk’s ambitious claims genuinely achievable with such a flawed system?

Additionally, recent stats show over 200 fatal accidents involving Tesla vehicles have occurred since the introduction of FSD. Data indicates a significant portion of these accidents occurred during self-driving attempts, raising hard questions about the safety of autonomous technology right now.

In discussions around tech and business, many experts highlight the growing issues with leadership. Musk’s promises reflect a trend of executives prioritizing vision over practicality. A recent Bloomberg profile of Microsoft’s CEO revealed that he heavily relies on AI, showcasing how leaders today increasingly depend on technology instead of engaging directly with challenges.

The era of "symbolic executives" prompts concerns about their understanding of real-world problems. The rush to innovate sometimes leads to overlooking established methods that could ensure the safety and effectiveness of new technologies.

While Musk’s ventures captivate headlines and imaginations, the increasing proofs against his claims put a stark light on the need for accountability. In a world where self-driving promises loom large, will Tesla ever deliver real autonomy? Or is genuine progress forever just out of reach?

For a deeper dive into the topic, you can check out this piece by The Atlantic, exploring the evolution of self-driving technology.

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