Link: Tensor wants to be the first company to sell you a ‘robocar’ — but who are they?

A new venture called Tensor debuts today, introducing what it claims to be the first consumer-ready autonomous vehicle produced at scale. The San Jose-based company, an offshoot of AutoX, aims to pioneer "robocars" for private owners starting in 2026.

Despite its claims, Tensor remains tight-lipped about its connections with AutoX, a Chinese autonomous vehicle company active in the US and China since 2016. Speculation suggests that Tensor might have been formed to circumvent US regulations against using Chinese software.

In 2020, AutoX partnered with Fiat Chrysler to launch a robotaxi service in China, and recently it aimed to start similar services in San Francisco. However, the company still awaits the necessary permits for operation in the US.

AutoX, also founded by former Princeton professor Jianxiong Xiao or "Professor X", has been tested around San Jose. The company has secured significant funding and partnerships including with Dongfeng Motor Group and Alibaba.

Tensor's robocar is crafted with an advanced suite of sensors, suggesting a high-tech yet costly setup. Its introduction could potentially shift the personal transportation paradigm given its extensive technology array.

With other companies like Tesla and GM aspiring to market autonomous vehicles, the road ahead sees hurdles in cost and liability considerations. Tensor’s launch might influence the pace and adoption of privatized driverless technology. #

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