Elon Musk Makes Surprise China Visit, Eyes on Driverless Tech and Growth
Tesla CEO Elon Musk's surprise trip to China last weekend sparked a flurry of speculation.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk's surprise trip to China last weekend sparked a flurry of speculation. While the visit wasn't announced beforehand, several key developments emerged:
- Full Self-Driving Push: A major reason for Musk's visit is believed to be seeking approval for Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) software in China. This technology could be a significant revenue booster for Tesla, especially considering the vast Chinese market.
- Data Security Clearance: The trip coincided with news that Tesla's China-made cars met the country's data security requirements. This paves the way for potential FSD approval, which may have been contingent on data security concerns being addressed.
- Renewed Focus on China: Musk's visit comes amidst challenges for Tesla, including declining sales and competition. China is a crucial market, and this trip suggests a renewed focus on growth there.
While some analysts believe a "supervised" version of FSD might be unlikely in China, Musk's meeting with Premier Li Qiang and other officials has fueled speculation about a potential breakthrough. The surprise visit highlights the significance of the Chinese market for Tesla's future.