Elon Musk has expressed frustration that traditional car manufacturers are still ignoring Tesla's Full Self-Driving technology, even though it's widely recognized as the most capable system available, working effectively everywhere. He has tried to offer licenses for years, but there have been no takers. This situation mirrors how these same companies once overlooked the rise of electric vehicles.

A decade ago, executives from companies like Ford and GM downplayed EVs as niche products, only to find themselves scrambling to catch up after Tesla's Model S and Model 3 started disrupting the market. Musk noted that rivals only truly woke up when Tesla gained significant market share. They were late to the party, and even today, many still rely on Tesla for crucial infrastructure like charging. It's a clear case of history repeating itself, as Musk sent rivals a dire warning about Full Self-Driving.

Current reluctance to adopt Tesla's FSD likely stems from competitive pride, regulatory concerns, high costs, or a desire for in-house development. However, these in-house self-driving projects are struggling, with some traditional automakers like Ford scaling back their EV efforts and GM's projects facing difficulties. This puts them at risk of falling further behind, potentially forcing them into partnerships that have historically yielded limited success, as seen with Sony Honda Mobility's Afeela prototype.

This pattern of underestimation isn't just about market share; it's about defining the future of transportation. Self-driving technology promises enhanced safety, with Tesla's safety reports showing its Autopilot is significantly safer than human drivers. Competition also drives down costs and fuels innovation. By resisting proven advancements, these companies risk not only their own future but also delaying widespread access to safer and more affordable transportation solutions. The stakes are incredibly high, determining what a car will truly be in the decades to come.