Ford CEO Endorses Waymo Over Tesla Self-Driving Strategy

Ford CEO Jim Farley has expressed clear skepticism about Tesla's camera-only approach to autonomous driving, favoring Waymo's use of LiDAR technology for enhanced safety and reliability. Farley stressed that LiDAR acts as a critical safety net where cameras may fail, aligning with Ford's cautious strategy focused on consumer trust and safety. While Tesla emphasizes cost-effectiveness and high-volume production with its camera-based systems, Farley underscored the importance of technological redundancy to ensure safer autonomous vehicles. Ford has shifted away from developing fully autonomous systems in-house, instead exploring partnerships, including potential collaboration with Waymo, which has raised significant funding to expand its fleet and paid ride volume. Tesla recently launched its Robotaxi service in Austin, continuing its cameras-only strategy, which Elon Musk defends as more cost-efficient despite criticisms. Uber's recent launch of Waymo's autonomous vehicles in Atlanta highlights growing industry momentum toward LiDAR-equipped AVs integrated into ride-sharing platforms, further advancing the autonomous mobility landscape.