Tesla Owners Respond to Elon Musk’s FSD Update

Tesla has announced a significant change to its Full Self-Driving (FSD) software model that has prompted mixed reactions from owners. Starting February 14, 2024, the FSD feature will only be available through a subscription service priced at $99 monthly.

Tesla’s Shift to Subscription Model

This new move marks a departure from the initial sales model that began in late 2016, where Tesla offered FSD for a one-time fee starting at $5,000. The price has risen to $8,000 in recent years, and a monthly subscription was introduced in 2021. The recent decision means drivers will lose the option to make a lump-sum payment for lifetime access to the technology.

Owner Reactions

• Leslie Snipes: A Model 3 owner expressed concerns about the subscription model, finding it off-putting. She noted her previous positive experience during a trial period but highlighted safety issues experienced during low-light conditions.
• Scott Anderson: A recent Model Y buyer from Arizona, Anderson opted for the subscription without considering the upfront payment. He has enjoyed the technology on long trips and is hopeful prices might decrease as advancements occur.
• Nikki Lindgren: A longtime Tesla owner and previous FSD purchaser, Lindgren remarked that the subscription might deter her from buying a new Tesla unless software transfer options are introduced.

Implications of the Change

Tesla’s transition to a subscription-based FSD model reflects its growing confidence in the technology. Seth Goldstein, an analyst from Morningstar, believes this shift indicates that Tesla aims to enhance the driving experience while increasing revenue. Additionally, the company faces substantial deadlines in 2024, including the rollout of its Cybercab.

As part of its broader strategy, there are expectations that prices for FSD might increase once it achieves unsupervised driving capabilities. Goldstein suggests that consumers may soon have the option to bundle FSD with other services like charging and insurance.

Conclusion

Tesla’s new subscription approach to its Full Self-Driving software has incited a diverse range of opinions among owners. Some welcome the flexibility and lower initial costs, while others remain skeptical about the implications for safety and long-term ownership. Going forward, the company must navigate these sentiments as it pushes toward greater autonomous driving capabilities.