First and foremost, the concern is not just about creating a vehicle sans a steering wheel, but rather achieving effective functionality of the accompanying software. There’s a considerable gap between testing in controlled environments, such as amusement parks, and navigating the complexities of real land traffic like that of Los Angeles. The optimism for progress is palpable, but the reality of implementation is likely to pose significant challenges.
However, Levandowski concedes that while there’s great potential for self-driving technology, scaling it to an affordable and mass-market offering requires a significant advancement in Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software. He noted that the operational capabilities of Waymo's fully autonomous robotaxis in key metropolitan areas only highlight the complexities involved in achieving widespread deployment.
Regarding the potential of Tesla’s Cybercabs, Levandowski embraced the vision that could democratize access to self-driving technology. This model empowers small business owners to operate fleets independently, fostering a landscape of diverse and localized enterprises rather than a monopoly by a single large corporation. It reflects a future where ownership and operation of self-driving vehicles could be accessible to many.
Despite his overall agreement with Musk's optimistic vision, Levandowski cautioned against expecting rapid advancements. He suggests that while Tesla's aspirations are admirable, achieving success on the timelines suggested by Musk may not be realistic.
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