The Waymo and Cruise Level 4 approach may be a dead end because their apparent business model depends on outcompeting Uber but they are using a methodology that seems cost prohibitive. It seems like an all-or-nothing approach. In contrast, Tesla’s FSD software has value as an enhanced driver assist program as evidenced by it currently providing a profit for Tesla. It is already successful and profitable for Tesla.
This is not true. Tesla advertises FSD as providing enhance features over their basic Autopilot system that still requires active supervision. From the Tesla FSD web page: “With Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability, you will get access to a suite of more advanced driver assistance features, designed to provide more active guidance and assisted driving under your active supervision.” In what sense is this selling the product before it is ready?
And one doesn’t need to pay the full price. One can use FSD on a monthly basis at $199/month. Full Self-Driving Capability Subscriptions | Tesla Support
Musk said the next gen vehicle will operate mostly in autonomous mode, which will presumably be the main product of the Mexico gigafactory. Musk says Tesla’s next-gen vehicle will be ‘almost entirely’ autonomous (teslarati.com)