Elon Musk insists Tesla is a tech company. It's starting to look like one.

Core Viewpoint - Tesla is transitioning from a traditional automotive company to a technology-oriented firm focused on AI and robotics, as evidenced by its decision to discontinue the Model S and X EVs to prioritize the production of the Optimus humanoid robot and its investment in AI initiatives [1][4][7]. Financial Performance - Tesla reported its first-ever annual revenue decline, with profits falling by 46% last year and car sales revenue decreasing by 11% year-over-year in the last quarter [2]. - Despite these challenges, Tesla exceeded Wall Street expectations, leading to a 3% increase in its stock price after earnings [5]. Strategic Shift - The company is phasing out traditional vehicle sales as its primary revenue source, with a significant focus on robotics and AI services [6][7]. - Tesla's executives believe that the future of transportation will be dominated by autonomous vehicles, predicting that less than 5% of miles driven will involve human drivers [5]. Full Self-Driving (FSD) Strategy - Tesla has transitioned its FSD software to a subscription model, removing the one-time purchase option, which analysts view as a move to monetize its technology and drive adoption [8][9]. - Currently, only 12% of Tesla owners have purchased FSD, with a significant portion of these being upfront purchases rather than subscriptions [11]. Robotaxi and Optimus Initiatives - The company is heavily investing in its robotaxi service and the Optimus humanoid robot, which are seen as critical to its future valuation [13][14]. - Tesla aims to have robotaxis operating in a significant portion of the U.S. by the end of the year, pending regulatory approval, with production of the Cybercab robotaxi set to begin in April [17]. Market Dynamics - Tesla continues to dominate the U.S. electric vehicle market, but faces increasing competition from Chinese manufacturers like BYD, which are gaining market share globally [20][21]. - The end of the $7,500 tax credit has contributed to a slowdown in the EV market, impacting Tesla's sales [20]. Future Outlook - Analysts suggest that Tesla's transition to a tech-oriented business model could lead to higher margins and revenue, transforming it from a capital-intensive automotive company to a high-margin services business [19][24]. - The company is expected to spend over $20 billion this year on new production lines and AI infrastructure to support this transition [19].