Tesla (TSLA) Is Far Behind in the Autonomous-Vehicle Race, Former TSLA Executive Says

Tesla (TSLA) is "a few years" behind "many players" when it comes to self-driving technology, said Karim Bousta, the automaker's former Vice President of Worldwide Service and Customer Experience.

Moreover, Bousta believes that, in general, Tesla is facing "huge challenges."

Today Bousta is the partner and co-founder of venture capital firm DVX.

What Tesla Must Accomplish to Build a Successful Robotaxi Business

In order to develop a thriving robotaxi business, Tesla "has to solve the self-driving challenge," said Bousta. Moreover, he noted that the firm "has to catch up" with "the many players" who are ahead of it in the latter area.

Additionally, TSLA has to develop the business side of the venture, a task that will require "time, capital, and effort," he believes.

Good News and Bad News for TSLA

Elon Musk's decision to soon start devoting more time to TSLA is "great news" for the automaker, Bousta said. That's because Musk will be able to help Tesla accomplish its two major tasks: Launching new products and building its robotaxi business.

On the other hand, Musk's decision will not make the "huge" challenges that the firm is facing any easier, Bousta contended.

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