Would You Buy a Fully Driverless Car?

Introduction

In October 2024, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk unveiled a fully driverless car. However, would you consider purchasing one? The debate around driverless vehicles often centers on practicality, cost, and safety. As a seasoned consumer, I explore the pros and cons of investing in such a car.

The Skeptic's Perspective

Despite the excitement surrounding driverless technologies, my stance remains skeptical. The idea of relying on a vehicle with no human driver is unsettling. Personally, I find it more comfortable and safer to be in control of the driving process. This perspective aligns with the views of many non-nerds or individuals who prefer convention over advanced technology.

Consumer Preferences and Practicality

Even if a driverless car is invented by a tech giant like Tesla, my choice would remain the same. Currently, the Mustang is priced at $60,000, and it’s questionable whether people can afford such a high cost. Furthermore, owning such a car might make driving less appealing if one has the financial means to not drive at all.

Prototype Reality

Tesla has showcased several Cybercab prototypes, which are merely test models. These prototypes are not intended for immediate sale but are being used to identify and refine potential issues before mass production. Tesla has also conducted extensive testing with their Semi trucks, collaborating with PepsiCo. These tests involve real-world scenarios to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Investment Potential

For those contemplating buying a driverless car, the rental investment model seems like a compelling option. A car like the Model 2 or Cybercab could serve as a profitable rental vehicle. Such a purchase would be a lower financial commitment than buying and maintaining property, which often yields modest returns after taxes. Additionally, Tesla's advanced AI platform enhances the potential return on investment by managing the vehicle efficiently.

Personal Experience

Personally, I own a 2017 Tesla Model S with supervised Full Self Driving (FSD) capabilities. This update allows for nearly autonomous travel with only minimal interference. My recent acquisition of a Cybertruck also runs supervised FSD. These experiences highlight the ongoing development and refinement of driverless technology but also show its current limitations.

The Uncertain Future

If you’re shopping for a car in October 2024, the answer is likely no. The costs associated with FSD, combined with the fact that it is not entirely driverless, mean the value proposition is not strong enough compared to other options. However, the future looks promising. If robotaxis become cheap, efficient, and ubiquitous, owning a personal vehicle may become obsolete.

Ultimately, the decision to buy a fully driverless car depends on your circumstances and the advancements in technology. While Tesla and other companies continue to refine their driverless vehicles, it's wise to remain cautious and patient.