Gary Zhou 
- 📊 Elon Musk debunked claims that the take rate for Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system is only 2%.
- 📈 Musk stated that the actual take rate for FSD is much higher than the reported 2% figure.
- 🔢 The 2% estimate was based on a study that tracked nearly 3,500 Tesla owners who experienced the FSD free trial, with only 50 reportedly subscribing to the system.
- ⚠️ Musk acknowledged that the sample size of less than 3,500 users out of approximately 1.8 million FSD-capable vehicles does not provide significant statistical insight.
- 🚘 Tesla reported in Q1 2024 that FSD has been pushed to about 1.8 million vehicles, with Musk stating that around half are actively using the system, suggesting around 900,000 FSD users at the time.
- 🤖 FSD is a central part of Tesla’s future plans, including the upcoming unveiling of the dedicated Robotaxi “Cybercab” on August 8, 2024, and potential launch of the Robotaxi service in China first.
In the ever-evolving world of autonomous driving technology, Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system has been at the forefront of innovation and controversy. Recently, a report surfaced claiming that the take rate for FSD was a mere 2%, sparking intense discussions and speculation within the electric vehicle community. However, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has stepped in to debunk these claims, offering a more accurate picture of FSD’s adoption and its pivotal role in the company’s future plans.
Debunking the 2% Myth
The 2% take rate figure for FSD was derived from a study conducted by moomoo Technologies Inc., which tracked nearly 3,500 Tesla owners who experienced the FSD free trial. According to the study, only 50 of these owners reportedly subscribed to the advanced driver-assist system. This shockingly low number quickly gained traction in media reports and sparked widespread skepticism about FSD’s appeal among Tesla owners.
However, Elon Musk swiftly addressed these claims, unequivocally stating that the actual take rate for FSD is much higher than the reported 2%. In a post on the social media platform X, Musk acknowledged the limited sample size of the study, emphasizing that less than 3,500 users out of approximately 1.8 million FSD-capable vehicles does not provide significant statistical insight.
The True Scope of FSD Adoption
To put the matter into perspective, Tesla revealed in its Q1 2024 Update Letter that the FSD system has broken the 1.3 billion mile mark, a testament to its widespread adoption and usage. During the subsequent earnings call, Musk shared that FSD has been pushed to about 1.8 million vehicles, and remarkably, around half of those vehicles are actively using the system.
This information suggests that at the time of the Q1 2024 earnings call, there were approximately 900,000 FSD users, a staggering figure that stands in stark contrast to the initial 2% take rate claim. These numbers not only highlight the growing popularity of FSD among Tesla owners but also underscore its potential as a key differentiator in the highly competitive autonomous driving market.
FSD: The Cornerstone of Tesla’s Future
Elon Musk’s vigorous defense of FSD’s take rate is not merely a matter of statistics; it reflects the pivotal role FSD plays in Tesla’s long-term vision. The company’s commitment to autonomous driving technology is exemplified by Musk’s recent announcement that Tesla’s dedicated Robotaxi “Cybercab” will be unveiled on August 8, 2024.
The Robotaxi program represents a significant step towards realizing the dream of fully autonomous ridesharing services, and FSD is the foundation upon which this revolutionary concept will be built. Furthermore, recent reports suggest that Tesla may launch its Robotaxi service in China first, potentially positioning the country as a pioneer in the adoption of this groundbreaking technology.
The Road Ahead
As Tesla continues to push the boundaries of autonomous driving, the importance of accurate data and transparent communication cannot be overstated. Elon Musk’s swift response to the 2% take rate claim not only sets the record straight but also reinforces Tesla’s commitment to transparency and open dialogue with its customer base and stakeholders.
Moving forward, the true impact of FSD will be measured not only in raw numbers but also in its ability to revolutionize the way we perceive and experience transportation. As the technology continues to evolve and refine itself, it will be crucial for Tesla to maintain open lines of communication, addressing concerns and misconceptions while providing a clear vision of the future they aim to create.
