This Week in TSLA: 24/7 Robotaxis, Cybertruck-Based SUV, $10 Billion Solar Bet and More
Badar Shaikh 7 hours ago
MarketsTechMarket Summary
This week Tesla saw the Robotaxi go 24/7, Porsche's criticism of the flying Roadster and potential Cybertruck-based aftermarket SUV.
Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) was in the news once again this week as CEO Elon Musk‘s ambitious predictions, Robotaxi operations, as well as the uncertain future of the Cybertruck filled the headlines. Here’s a look at some of the top stories this week.
Tesla’s Holiday Collection
Tesla added over 20 items to its online Holiday Collection, including toys, clothing and seasonal products aimed at the company’s loyal fanbase.
Several products were already sold out, suggesting continued interest in Tesla-branded goods even as the company shifts attention toward newer priorities.
Robotaxi Now Operates Around the Clock
Musk said Tesla’s Robotaxi service runs continuously wherever it is available, marking another expansion for the autonomous ride-hailing program.
The official Robotaxi account on X announced late Wednesday, "Robotaxi now runs 24/7…Every city we’re available in."
Porsche’s CEO Questions Tesla’s flying Roadster Spectacle
Porsche AG (OTC:POAHY) CEO Michael Leiters pushed back against the dramatic presentation surrounding Tesla’s flying Roadster, saying sports cars should emphasize engineering over theatrical effects.
Musk celebrated the vehicle’s October unveiling after footage showed the Roadster performing a midair flip.
Elon Musk Sees The Cybercab Dominating Ride-Hailing
Tesla’s CEO predicted the Cybercab will dominate ride-hailing in markets where Robotaxis can operate commercially, as the company continues developing its autonomous driving business.
The comments came after an X user questioned how Tesla could compete with global ride-hailing companies that collectively rely on about 16 million human drivers.
Cybertruck-Based SUV?
After Tesla confirmed it was winding down Cybertruck production, Unplugged Performance offered to take over the remaining fleet and develop a new three-row SUV based on the electric pickup.
The aftermarket tuner said it wanted to "take the Cybertruck line off your [Tesla] hands" and supported prioritizing the Cybercab.
$10 Billion Solar Bet
Preliminary work on Tesla’s solar energy manufacturing facility near Houston, Texas began this week, representing a commitment of more than $10 billion to the project.
Influencer Sawyer Merritt said construction is expected to finish in 2028, with commercial operations scheduled to begin during the first quarter of 2029.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Check out more of Benzinga’s Future of Mobility coverage by following this link.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock