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.

Elon Musk Makes Surprise China Visit, Eyes on Driverless Tech and Growth
Tesla CEO Elon Musk's surprise trip to China

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.