Tesla to launch Full Self Driving in Europe and China early next year

Tesla has announced plans to launch its Full Self Driving (FSD) driver assistance product in Europe and China in the first quarter of 2025, contingent upon receiving regulatory approval. This announcement was made via a post on the X social media platform, and it follows a significant increase in Tesla's stock price, which rose by 6% after the news. The FSD product is a paid add-on feature for Tesla customers and represents a key component of Elon Musk's vision to enhance the company's focus on artificial intelligence and self-driving technology. Despite the name, Full Self Driving does not enable vehicles to operate fully autonomously. Drivers are still required to remain attentive, keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, ready to take control when necessary. This product is an upgrade to Tesla's existing Autopilot driver assistance system, which is already available in both Europe and China. In China, Tesla also offers a premium option known as Enhanced Autopilot. Elon Musk has been promising investors since 2016 that Tesla would develop technology capable of fully autonomous driving. However, the company has yet to secure the necessary regulatory permissions to launch the FSD product in these regions. Musk expressed optimism in July that regulatory clearance would be obtained by the end of 2024, paving the way for the rollout of FSD. The introduction of Full Self Driving in these markets is expected to further solidify Tesla's position as a leader in the electric vehicle sector and self-driving technology. As the company continues to innovate, the successful launch of FSD could significantly impact its market share and customer base in Europe and China.