Tesla(US:TSLA) 3 6 Ke·2025-04-23 01:34Core Viewpoint - Elon Musk has reiterated Tesla's commitment to a pure vision-based approach for fully autonomous driving, relying solely on cameras, Tesla's AI chips, and AI software, while rejecting lidar and other sensors [1][2][4]. Group 1: Tesla's Position on Autonomous Driving - Tesla's strategy emphasizes the belief that advanced AI algorithms and proprietary chips can provide vehicles with perception and decision-making capabilities that rival or exceed human drivers [1][2]. - Musk has previously criticized lidar, stating that using lidar is a flawed approach, as human drivers do not use lasers to navigate [1][2]. - Tesla's marketing now reflects this philosophy, promoting the idea that driving should be based on human-like perception rather than sensor reliance [1]. Group 2: Lidar Industry Dynamics - The high cost of lidar technology has historically deterred companies like Tesla from adopting it, with prices for early models reaching nearly $80,000 [4]. - Chinese lidar companies have gained a competitive edge due to significant cost reductions, with prices dropping from approximately $30,000 to around $200 over eight years, making lidar more accessible [4][5]. - BYD has announced plans to vertically integrate lidar into its production, aiming to reduce costs further, potentially bringing the price down to 900 yuan per unit [7]. Group 3: Market Trends and Adoption - The penetration rate of lidar in new energy vehicles in China is expected to exceed 40% this year, up from 25% last year, indicating a growing acceptance of lidar technology [7]. - Various automakers, including Leap Motor and GAC Toyota, are incorporating lidar into their models, with a significant portion of orders for lidar-equipped versions [8][10]. - The competition in the lidar market is intensifying, with companies needing to explore international markets and non-automotive applications to maintain profitability [11][12]. Group 4: Future of Lidar and Robotics - The global market for lidar in robotics is projected to grow significantly, with estimates suggesting that by 2029, there could be 5 million robots using lidar, representing a potential market size of $10 billion [15]. - Companies like Hesai are expanding their lidar applications beyond automotive, targeting high-growth markets such as delivery and cleaning robots [15][17]. - Hesai has secured significant contracts with major automotive manufacturers, enhancing its position in the global lidar market [14].