Tesla has achieved a significant rise in its Full Self-Driving (FSD) subscriptions, surpassing the one million active user mark for the first time. The move to a subscription-only model comes at a time when discussions around the future of autonomous driving technology are intensifying. As more drivers consider advanced driver-assistance options, industry observers are closely following how recurring pricing might affect both adoption and industry competition. The decision also has potential ramifications for Tesla owners who previously opted to purchase FSD outright, now directed toward a shifting product strategy.
Earlier reports mainly discussed Tesla’s incremental growth in FSD subscriptions year-on-year, highlighting steady but slower climbs in the user base. In contrast, the latest figures point to an accelerated trend after the policy shift removing outright purchases. Other sources had previously speculated about Tesla’s motivation for this change, but the relationship to CEO Elon Musk’s compensation targets has now been clarified, adding context to the latest announcement.
Subscription Numbers Climb
According to figures shared by Tesla during its Q4 2025 Earnings Call, FSD active subscriptions climbed from 800,000 last year to 1.1 million, marking a 38% increase. This growth continues an upward trajectory observed over recent years, having doubled since 2021. Tesla representatives confirmed the company’s focus on scaling FSD access in line with these trends.
What Motivated the Move to Subscriptions Only?
The decision to offer Full Self-Driving exclusively as a monthly subscription was explained as a strategic move.
“Tesla will stop selling FSD after Feb 14. FSD will only be available as a monthly subscription thereafter,”
stated Elon Musk. This approach allows Tesla to manage revenue streams and aligns with the company’s longer-term financial goals. Pricing flexibility and future adjustments are now frequently discussed as central elements of this strategy.
How Does Tesla Plan to Encourage Further Growth?
Tesla has not disclosed detailed plans for accelerating FSD subscription growth. The current subscription rate stands at $99 per month, but Musk has indicated this fee will increase.
“Its value could be close to $100,000 when it reaches full autonomy,”
Musk emphasized. A lower-cost offering is considered less likely as development continues toward enhanced features and the platform grows in sophistication.
Recent developments suggest Tesla is prioritizing subscription revenue, targeting 10 million active subscriptions as tied to Musk’s compensation package. The pace of growth since shifting away from outright sales may indicate that drivers favor flexibility over long-term commitments. However, uncertainties regarding future pricing and access may influence consumer decisions and market positioning. For those considering autonomous driving features, subscription terms, anticipated price increases, and feature improvements are key factors to watch. Users interested in FSD may want to consider the balance between current costs and projected changes as adoption grows.
