Should investors sell immediately? Or is it worth buying Tesla? Based on the current rate of data collection, this crucial threshold is not expected to be reached until July 2026. This projection effectively nullifies the previously discussed goal of bringing the technology to market by the “end of 2025.” The delay validates long-standing expert concerns about the complexity of autonomous systems and places additional pressure on Tesla’s lofty valuation. With a market capitalization of $1.45 trillion and a price-to-earnings ratio nearing 290, the stock price already assumes an almost flawless execution of the AI strategy. Operational Performance Presents a Mixed Picture Tesla’s operational results also show a blend of strengths and weaknesses. The Giga Shanghai factory celebrated a milestone last Thursday, producing its five-millionth electric drive unit. Yet, annual delivery figures from the plant reveal a challenge. In 2025, the facility delivered a total of 851,732 vehicles, representing a year-over-year decrease of more than 7%. A strong December, with over 97,000 units sold, provided at least a robust finish to the year. Investor Attention Turns to Quarterly Results The financial community is now looking ahead to January 28, 2026, when Tesla will report its fourth-quarter earnings. Beyond the standard financial metrics, investors will seek details on the updated Model Y (“Juniper”)—already listed in the UK—and commentary on the investment costs for AI infrastructure. Additionally, an upcoming US Congressional hearing could pave the way for a regulatory change, potentially raising the annual production cap for vehicles without steering wheels, like the planned Cybercab, from the current limit of 2,500 to 90,000 units. Ad