Tesla to launch full self-driving in Europe and China by early 2025

Top 3 Key Points:

1. Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) will likely launch in Europe and China in Q1 2025.
2. Regulatory approval is a key hurdle, with Tesla working closely with authorities in both regions.
3. FSD will face challenges in China due to electric scooters and busy traffic conditions.

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature, originally expected to launch in Europe and China by the end of 2024, is now scheduled for early 2025. This shift in timing was confirmed by Tesla’s AI team on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). According to the announcement, the automaker is targeting the first quarter of 2025 for the release, pending regulatory approval in both regions.

Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, has made several trips to China in recent months to speed up the approval process. Initially, Tesla aimed for a possible release as early as September 2024. However, it seems the regulatory process and other factors have caused delays.

Tesla is placing high importance on getting the green light for FSD in China, as it could significantly boost the company’s sales there. Currently, Tesla offers its FSD package in China for RMB 64,000 (€8,300), while the Enhanced Autopilot (EAP) is available at half that price, although EAP is the only option allowed for use on Chinese roads at present.

Beyond regulations, Tesla faces other potential challenges in China, particularly the country’s unique traffic environment. Chinese roads are filled with electric scooters and various non-motorized vehicles that share the same lanes as cars. This could present obstacles for Tesla’s FSD system, which relies on advanced sensors and cameras to navigate complex traffic situations. Managing these busy, mixed-traffic conditions will be crucial for FSD’s success in China.

Overall, while the timeline has shifted, Tesla remains committed to bringing its FSD technology to new markets, with Europe and China on the horizon for 2025.