Tesla shares surge 3.07% on renewed investor confidence in robotaxi ambitions and Morgan Stanley projections

Tesla shares surged 3.07% in pre-market trading on Dec. 17, 2025, signaling renewed investor confidence in the automaker’s strategic direction.

The rally follows a series of catalysts, including bullish sentiment around Tesla’s robotaxi ambitions. Analysts highlighted the potential for the company to scale its autonomous vehicle fleet to a million units by 2035, a projection from Morgan Stanley that amplified market optimism. This contrasts with broader industry challenges, as rival Ford announced a $19.5 billion writedown on its EV division and scaled back production of larger electric vehicles due to weak demand.

Tesla’s stock has now surpassed previous records, with intraday highs reaching $491.50 and a market capitalization of $1.63 trillion. The move reflects a dramatic reversal from a 36% drop in Q1 2025, underscoring the stock’s sensitivity to evolving perceptions of its autonomy technology and competitive positioning. Investors appear to be betting on Tesla’s ability to monetize its existing EV fleet through autonomous features, shifting focus from long-term R&D expectations to tangible revenue streams.

Market analysts are also scrutinizing the broader EV sector for signs of stabilization, with many tracking Tesla’s influence on sentiment and pricing patterns. This comes as traditional automakers reassess their strategies amid shifting consumer preferences and supply chain adjustments.

Industry observers note that the recent rally may indicate a turning point in the EV market, particularly as Tesla’s autonomous features begin to generate incremental revenue from existing car owners. This dynamic is expected to evolve rapidly in 2026, with further product updates and regulatory approvals potentially accelerating adoption.

In summary, Tesla’s stock performance and strategic initiatives have reignited bullish interest, while the broader sector continues to face challenges from overcapacity and shifting demand expectations.