Consumers remain deeply skeptical of autonomous vehicles and Tesla’s self-driving technology, according to the latest Electric Vehicle Intelligence Report.
More than half of respondents describe autonomous taxis as dangerous, while 47 per cent call them scary and 41 per cent say they are not sufficiently regulated. Only 5 per cent consider them safe. Nearly seven in 10 consumers say they would not consider riding in an autonomous taxi, and 45 per cent believe the technology should be illegal.
Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system faces similar resistance. Nearly half (47 per cent) of consumers say it should be illegal, compared with 36 per cent who support legality. The feature makes 35 per cent of respondents less likely to buy a Tesla, while only 10 per cent say it makes them more likely.
Public opinion on Tesla has deteriorated over the past six months, with 27 per cent reporting more negative views and just 10 per cent saying their opinion improved. Overall, 45 per cent of consumers view Tesla’s value as a sham, while 39 per cent say it is real and well-deserved.
The Cybertruck draws sharp criticism, with nearly 80 per cent describing its design as ugly or hideous. Only 14 per cent hold a favourable opinion of the model, and perceptions of safety are split.
Traditional automakers lead in trust and brand positivity. Toyota and Honda top the rankings, with 69 per cent and 67 per cent trust scores respectively. Tesla ranks near the bottom, with net trust at minus-eight and net brand favourability at minus-16.
Consumers also favour non-Tesla vehicles for rideshare use. Honda and Toyota sedans are the top choice at 34 per cent, while Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3 attract just six per cent. The Cybertruck ranks last at two per cent.
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