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Elon Musk is a bit of a polarizing figure. Many technology fans believe the South African-born innovator and businessman to be an unparalleled visionary. Others consider Musk to be a dreamer, living vaporware in the modern technology sector. However, the controversial CEO behind Tesla asserts that the company’s self-driving car initiatives will be a game-changer. Enter the Tesla Robovan, the company’s vision for a 20-passenger self-driving urban transport. 

Tesla CEO Elon Musk says the new Robovan will ‘reshape cities’ with a self-driving, 20-passenger platform

This week, Tesla CEO Elon Musk introduced the Robotaxi, a self-driving two-seater, at Warner Bros. Studios in California. The Robotaxi is supposed to undercut the cost of the marque’s most affordable EV, the Model 3, by some margin. Still, the Robotaxi, though the star of the show, wasn’t the only announcement at the event.

Tesla announced its “Robovan” as well. Unlike the diminutive, two-door Robotaxi, the similarly self-driving Robovan will carry up to 20 occupants across urban landscapes. Elon Musk is very optimistic about the large, science fiction-esque Robovan. In fact, Musk reportedly said that the Robovan’s transportation impact would “turn parking lots into parks” in cities. 

However, the market was less than thrilled with Elon Musk’s wild visions for the Tesla Robotaxi and Robovan. According to Reuters, the 20-minute presentation was “short on practical details.” As such, Tesla’s stock closed at $217.80, about 9% lower than its previous value.

Tesla shareholder and CEO of a wealth management company Ross Gerber is less than optimistic about the announcements. “For now, for the next 24 months, Tesla has to sell EVs. Why aren’t we focused on that?” Gerber said of Tesla’s plans.

Of course, Gerber is referring to more than the Tesla Robovan and Robotaxi. Specifically, Elon Musk included dancing versions of the brand’s incipient “Optimus” humanoid robots in the event. “I think this will be the biggest product ever, of any kind,” the controversial CEO said of the robots. Big words, but not necessarily words that many of Tesla’s investors believe.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).