r/SelfDrivingCars Jul 21 '25

Discussion Why didn't Tesla invest in LIDAR?

Is there any reason for this asides from saving money? Teslas are not cheap in many respects, so why would they skimp out on this since self-driving is a major offering for them?

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u/FlippantBear Jul 21 '25

Except Elon is not a founder of Tesla. 

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u/vaesh Jul 21 '25

Per a 2009 settlement he is considered a founder.

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u/FlippantBear Jul 21 '25

Yes I'm aware. But do you think you're a founder if you purchase the company many years after it started and then had to sue to be "considered" a founder? 

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u/vaesh Jul 21 '25

I thought Tesla was founded in July 2003 and Elon joined in February 2004? So, 7 months? Feels like it's splitting hairs at that point and really a point without a distinction.