Tesla's Shocking Move: Autosteer Disappears from Model 3 and Y!
Tesla has made a bold move by removing Autosteer from the Model 3 and Model Y configurator, a feature that was once an integral part of the Autopilot experience. But here's the twist: it's not a simple removal. This change is part of a strategic shift in how Tesla offers its driver-assistance features, and it's causing quite a stir.
The Current Situation:
- Tesla's updated configurator for U.S. buyers now excludes the full Autopilot suite from new Model 3 and Model Y trims.
- The final ordering step includes Traffic Aware Cruise Control (TACC) but leaves out Autosteer, which is crucial for lane centering.
- This change echoes Tesla's previous move when it introduced the 'affordable' Standard trim in October, where Autosteer was also omitted.
But here's where it gets controversial:
When comparing vehicle features on Tesla's website, Autosteer is shown as included for all trims except the Standard versions of Model 3 and Model Y. However, when configuring a vehicle, the final order page for both models, regardless of trim, only lists TACC and a 30-day trial of Full Self-Driving (FSD).
CEO Elon Musk's response to this change is intriguing. He hints at a future price increase for FSD as its capabilities evolve, suggesting a strategic shift towards a subscription-based model for advanced driver-assistance features. But is this a fair move for Tesla owners?
The Backlash:
Online reactions have been swift, with some users claiming Tesla is taking a step backward. With even budget-friendly cars like the Toyota Corolla LE offering lane centering, Tesla's decision to remove this feature seems puzzling. This has led some customers to consider alternative brands.
The Strategy:
Speculation suggests Tesla's move could be a tactic to boost FSD subscriptions. A YouTuber's report from Tesla's Model Y Standard launch event supports this, claiming a Tesla employee confirmed the strategy. Interestingly, this aligns with Elon Musk's $1 trillion CEO Performance Award, which includes a target of 10 million active FSD subscriptions. Could this be a calculated move to drive demand by making customers pay for a feature they've already experienced?
What's your take?
Do you think Tesla's strategy is a clever way to increase FSD subscriptions, or is it a step too far? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's discuss the future of driver-assistance technology!
