[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Tesla believes it can have a ride-hailing service that leverages its self-driving system in operation sometime next year, Chief Executive Elon Musk said Monday.
Speaking at Tesla’s Autonomy Day presentation, Musk offered the most details yet on plans for the Tesla Network, a program that enables Tesla owners to offer their cars for use as robotaxis.
The 2020 timeframe is dependent on regulatory approval, which will vary by jurisdiction. But, Musk seems confident that the service will be up and running in some parts of the U.S. next year.
Tesla owners will be able to offer their vehicles as available via a ride-sharing app that works similarly to other services like Uber and Lyft. Tesla will take a 25 percent to 30 percent cut of the revenue generated by an owner’s car.
Tesla also plans to operates its own dedicated fleet of robotaxis. To build that fleet, Tesla will require that all leased vehicles be returned. The cars will then be put into service for the Tesla Network.
Musk said that a Model 3 used as a robotaxi could generate about $30,000 in gross profit per year. And, he estimates that a full self-driving car that is part of the Tesla Network would have a value of around $200,000.
It’s another hard-to-believe claim from the ambitious CEO. But, it will certainly be exciting to see if Tesla’s robotaxi efforts will alter consumer’s transportation habits in the way the company predicts.
Check out the full presentation below, with the robotaxi portion beginning at around 3:05:00:[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/Ucp0TTmvqOE?t=11111″ video_title=”1″][/vc_column][/vc_row]