Potential Delays for Tesla’s Full Self-Driving Release in China

Tesla’s FSD release in China may be delayed amid rising U.S.-China tensions. The timeline for rollout, initially set for early 2025, is uncertain as regulatory challenges arise. Musk has noted difficulties in training data transfer related to both Chinese and U.S. regulations, while European approval may be possible by May 2025.

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) launch in China may face delays due to escalating tensions between the U.S. and Chinese governments. Sources from the Financial Times indicate that the FSD’s license approval could be leveraged in negotiations, especially following President Trump’s introduction of a 10% tariff on Chinese imports, leading China to seek discussions with the U.S. administration.

Originally scheduled for deployment in China and Europe by the first quarter of 2025, the timeline for Tesla’s FSD in China could be significantly affected by the current geopolitical climate. Elon Musk addressed these challenges during Tesla’s financial earnings call, highlighting issues surrounding training data transfer amidst regulatory hurdles.

Musk expressed concerns regarding the inability to conduct FSD training in China while also noting the complexities of transferring training data out of the country, stating, “We do have some challenges because they weren’t — they currently allow us to transfer training video outside of China. And then the US government won’t let us do training in China.”

In contrast, Musk projected that while FSD may struggle in China, it could receive regulatory approval in Europe by May 2025, implying that Tesla must navigate a complicated regulatory landscape before FSD can officially launch in that region.

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving rollout in China now faces uncertain delays due to U.S.-China tensions and regulatory challenges. While Musk identifies specific hurdles around data transfer and training, prospects for FSD’s deployment in Europe remain more promising, with expectations for approval by mid-2025. The strategic implications of government negotiations could significantly impact Tesla’s operational timeline in China.

Original Source: www.teslarati.com