This case explores Tesla’s ambitious venture into the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) beyond its identity as an electric vehicle manufacturer. It traces the evolution of Tesla’s AI strategy, highlighting key milestones from massmarket electric vehicles with basic autopilot features to the development of fullself- driving (FSD) robotaxis and the Optimus humanoid robot. The analysis of Tesla’s innovative approach to integrating AI into physical applications emphasizes the company’s focus on creating AI systems capable of navigating and interacting with the physical world. Key themes include technological advancements in AI, neural networks, and supercomputing, as well as the regulatory, societal and ethical considerations involved in deploying these autonomous technologies. By examining Tesla’s strategy and technological progress, the case offers insights into the potential impacts of AI-driven automation on various industries and society at large.
•Understanding AI Strategy and robotics: Students will learn about the strategic integration of AI in Tesla’s operations, from basic autopilot features to advanced autonomous technologies like FSD robotaxis and humanoid robots. This includes analyzing the phases of AI development and the technological innovations that support them. •Analyzing Technological Advancements and S-Curves: The case will help students understand the complexities of AI technologies, particularly in neural networks and supercomputing, and their applications in real-world scenarios such as autonomous driving and robotics. • Evaluating Regulatory and Societal Challenges: Students will explore the regulatory and societal challenges associated with deploying autonomous technologies at scale, including the ethical considerations and societal impacts. •Exploring Entrepreneurial Opportunities: The case will encourage students to identify and discuss the entrepreneurial opportunities created by FSD technology and autonomous humanoid robots, comparing Tesla’s strategy with those of its competitors in the autonomous vehicle and robotics industries. •Assessing Economic and Social Impacts: Students will evaluate the potential economic and social impacts of widespread adoption of AI-driven automation, including its effects on job markets and the nature of work. This case is designed for MBA and executive education courses focusing on technology strategy, AI and machine learning, innovation management, and business ethics. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the intersections between AI technology, innovation, and strategic business decisions, preparing students to engage in discussions on the future of AI-driven automation and its broader implications.
- AI
- Artificial Intelligence
- Self Driving
- Autonomous Driving
- Robotics
- LLMs
- Big tech
- Platform
-
Innovation - Machine Learning
- Data
- Digital
- Competitive Strategy
- SDG9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- Q42024