In response to a report about Waymo vehicles stalling during a major power outage in San Francisco, Elon Musk highlighted that Tesla’s robotaxis continued to operate smoothly. Company investor Mario Nawfal, founder of IBC Group, Froothie, WeAreGrowthHackers, and Optimum, compared the two services: Waymo cars stopped entirely when traffic lights went out, while Tesla’s FSD system managed the road chaos effortlessly.
The advantage of Tesla lies in its AI trained on billions of real-world miles rather than simulations with ‘ideal data.’ This approach has allowed Tesla to adapt to unpredictable conditions, like when familiar landmarks such as traffic lights temporarily fail. Waymo has relied on maps and order. Tesla banked on disorder-and won. When the lights go out, the difference is no longer theoretical. It’s traffic.
Mario Nawfal
Recent Developments in Autonomous Driving
As of late 2025, both Tesla and Waymo have made significant technological strides in autonomous driving. Tesla’s Full Self-Driving capabilities continue to advance, leveraging machine learning algorithms that improve vehicle perception and adaptability in real-world traffic situations. Waymo, meanwhile, focuses on detailed mapping and sensor technologies to navigate complex urban landscapes. These differences underscore distinct philosophical approaches to autonomy in vehicles.
Industry Impact and Regulatory Challenges
With autonomous technology advancing rapidly, regulatory challenges and user adoption remain at the forefront of discussions. Tesla’s method of wide real-world data collection and constant software updates influences regulatory concerns, particularly around safety standards and data privacy. User adoption is seeing a gradual rise as FSD features become more sophisticated and as Tesla vehicles continue to log impressive autonomous miles.
Expert Opinions
According to recent industry analysis, Tesla’s adaptation to unpredictable conditions provides a competitive edge. Waymo’s focus on precision with high-definition maps is praised for its handling of mapped routes but questioned outside these areas.
The competition between Tesla and Waymo not only highlights their technological contrasts but also places the spotlight on the evolution of autonomous vehicles in a world where adaptability and precision define success.
