In a recent blog post by moomoo Technologies Inc., an estimate suggesting a mere 2% take rate for Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) was highlighted, based on data from YipitData tracking nearly 3,500 Tesla owners. This figure quickly garnered attention on social media, with industry watchers noting its potential accuracy in the absence of a response from Elon Musk or Tesla.
However, Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, disputed this claim, stating in a post on X that “The take rate is much higher than 2%. Please.” Musk’s assertion challenges the notion of a low adoption rate for FSD, a key component of Tesla’s future strategy.
I don’t comment on everything, as sometimes I don’t see it and commenting on everything makes it easy to fish for information.
The take rate is much higher than 2%. Please.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 15, 2024
Tesla’s Q1 2024 Update Letter indicated that FSD had surpassed 1.3 billion miles and was active in approximately 1.8 million vehicles. Musk further noted during an earnings call that about half of these vehicles were using FSD, suggesting a user base of around 900,000 at that time.
moomoo Technologies Inc. acknowledged the limitations of its data, stating that “a trial sample of fewer than 3,500 out of nearly 1.8 million users does not provide significant statistical insight.” They emphasized the need for a broader trial base to accurately gauge customer acceptance of FSD.
Elon Musk’s recent announcement that Tesla’s Robotaxi “Cybercab” would be unveiled on August 8, 2024, underscores the company’s commitment to autonomous driving technology. Reports also suggest that Tesla may launch its Robotaxi service in China first, further highlighting the global significance of FSD in Tesla’s roadmap.
The dispute over the FSD take rate underscores the complexities of gauging consumer adoption of emerging technologies, particularly in the automotive industry where perceptions of safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness play crucial roles.
