Tesla’s highly anticipated Robotaxi event wasn’t just a one-trick pony. While the focus was on the upcoming driverless vehicle, Tesla also introduced a new autonomous vehicle: the Robovan.
The event, dubbed “We, Robot,” offered updates on Tesla’s humanoid robot, Optimus, which was seen serving drinks and handing out treats. However, the surprise unveiling was the Robovan. Rumors of this vehicle had circulated for years, including speculation about a 12-passenger van for Boring Co. tunnels. This event gave the first glimpse of what the final product might look like.
Limited details were shared about the Robovan, except that it can carry up to 20 people or be configured for cargo transport. The model displayed at the event was the passenger version, featuring 14 seats, and Tesla has released photos showing the interior.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk stated that the Robotaxi could bring transport costs down to around 20 cents per mile, while the Robovan could achieve even lower costs, potentially 5-10 cents per mile. Such a vehicle could be ideal for shuttle routes, such as airport transport, student shuttles, and for municipalities that require smaller public transit solutions. In a cargo configuration, it could also be used for last-mile city deliveries.
Musk reiterated his vision of a future that “should look like the future,” a sentiment reflected in the Robovan’s unique design.
While the Robovan’s design is certainly unconventional, Tesla has a history of bringing ambitious concepts to fruition. However, some viewers have raised concerns about the vehicle’s ground clearance, which appears to be quite low.
Unlike the Robotaxi, Tesla did not provide a release date for the Robovan. Musk anticipates the Robotaxi will be available within the next two years. The lack of a timeline for the Robovan means there’s no chance of it joining the list of delayed Tesla products.
Electrek’s analysis suggests that the Robovan’s larger capacity could address some of the criticisms levied against the Robotaxi, specifically, its limited seating capacity. The Robovan’s ability to transport more people could potentially reduce congestion.
While the Robotaxi was seen in action, the Robovan only pulled up and parked in front of the audience. Electrek’s assessment of the Robovan is cautiously optimistic, noting its potential to serve various transit needs. The potential for such vehicles to reduce congestion is a key argument.
