Tesla CEO Elon Musk says latest Full Self-Driving version shows major improvements as David Marcus calls it a game changer
New Delhi: Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, has once again brought the company’s self-driving technology into the spotlight. In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Musk urged people to try Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, especially those who may have tested an older version.
He wrote that anyone who hasn’t tried Tesla’s self-driving or tried an earlier version, should try it again now because it is “awesome.” He also praised the Tesla AI team for their continued efforts in improving the system.
The post quickly went viral, drawing millions of views and thousands of reactions. It reignited public discussion about how advanced Tesla’s self-driving technology has become.
David Marcus Says FSD Changes the EV Market
Elon Musk shared and supported comments from David Marcus, a well-known tech leader and former PayPal president. Marcus said Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system has improved so much that he believes it gives Tesla a major advantage in the electric vehicle market.
He stated that FSD has become “insanely good” and said he does not understand why anyone looking to buy an electric vehicle would choose a different brand over Tesla right now. He described the technology as a “total game changer.”
His strong message added more attention to Musk’s claims and fueled debate about Tesla’s progress in autonomous driving.
What Tesla’s Full Self-Driving System Actually Does
Even though it is called “Full Self-Driving,” Tesla’s system does not currently allow cars to drive completely on their own. It is still considered a supervised driver-assistance system. This means drivers must stay alert, keep their hands ready, and be prepared to take control whenever needed.
FSD builds on Tesla’s existing Autopilot features. It includes functions such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, automatic lane changes, recognizing traffic signals, and navigating city streets. However, it operates at SAE Level 2 automation, which means the system supports the driver but does not replace them.
This difference between the name and the actual capability has remained a major point of discussion among experts and regulators.
Also Read: From Welfare to Innovation: PM Modi Outlines India’s AI Roadmap
Tesla to Offer FSD Only Through Subscription
In a significant business decision, Musk recently announced that Tesla will stop selling Full Self-Driving as a one-time purchase after February 14, 2026. From that date onward, customers will only be able to access FSD through a monthly subscription.
Until now, buyers had two options: they could pay around $8,000 upfront for lifetime access or subscribe for about $99 per month. After February 2026, only the subscription plan will be available.
This move shows Tesla’s shift toward earning regular income from software services instead of relying on one-time payments. The company believes that a subscription model will support continuous improvements and ensure customers receive updated features as the technology develops.
Progress Continues, But Critics Remain Cautious
Tesla continues to release software updates aimed at improving FSD’s performance. Musk often talks about advances in artificial intelligence and neural networks that power the system. Supporters say these updates have made driving smoother and more reliable.
However, critics and independent analysts argue that while the system has improved, it still falls short of true autonomous driving. Some reports suggest that measurable performance indicators such as how often drivers need to intervene have not advanced as dramatically as Musk’s public statements sometimes suggest.
This gap between ambitious promises and real-world results continues to be debated.
Regulatory Questions and Safety Investigations
Tesla’s self-driving technology has also attracted attention from regulators in the United States and other countries. Authorities have examined whether the term “Full Self-Driving” might give drivers the impression that the car can operate independently without supervision.
Investigations into crashes involving Autopilot and FSD have added to safety concerns, although many cases are still under legal review. Regulators consistently remind drivers that they are responsible for the vehicle and must remain attentive when using these features.
Musk’s Long-Term Vision for Autonomous Driving
Elon Musk has repeatedly said that he sees Tesla as more than just a car company. He wants it to become a leader in artificial intelligence and robotics. His long-term goal includes launching robotaxi services and creating fleets of autonomous vehicles that can operate without human drivers.
Some limited robotaxi services have already begun in select locations under supervision. However, fully driverless vehicles on a large scale will require further technological progress and regulatory approval.
Conclusion
Elon Musk’s recent post encouraging people to try Tesla’s self-driving again, along with David Marcus’s strong praise, has once again placed Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system at the center of attention. Supporters believe the technology gives Tesla a strong edge in the electric vehicle market, while critics continue to question its safety, marketing language, and actual level of autonomy.
As Tesla moves to a subscription-only model and keeps refining its AI systems, the discussion around whether FSD truly represents a breakthrough in driving technology is likely to continue.
khushisikarwar is an award-winning journalist and content creator who thrives on telling stories that matter. As a key contributor to Newsisland, [she] focus on cultural commentary, providing readers with thought-provoking insights.
