Tesla’s Robotaxi Expansion Clashes With Slumping EV Sales
Tesla plans to double its Austin robotaxi fleet by December 2025, signaling aggressive autonomous ambitions even as its core EV business falters. The MOVE follows June's launch in Austin and a new Arizona permit, expanding its operational footprint to three states.
Meanwhile, Tesla's October European sales cratered 48.5% year-over-year against a 26% regional EV market growth. Global deliveries are projected to drop 7% in 2025 after a 1% decline this year. Chinese rival BYD outsold Tesla 2:1 in Europe during the period.
The divergence highlights Tesla's strategic pivot. While Elon Musk forecasts robotaxi coverage for half the U.S. population by 2025's end, traditional automotive revenues face sustained pressure. Safety monitors remain in vehicles despite earlier promises of fully autonomous operation.
