The fact that we still do not have a significant number of cars with LIDAR on our streets somewhat proves which approach the auto industry considers viable for business.

I am much more curious about the next ten years. If we can bring down the cost of a LIDAR unit into parity with camera systems[1], I think I know the answer. But I thought that 10 years ago and it did not happen so I wonder what is the real roadblock to make LIDAR cheap.

[1] Which it won't replace, of course. What it will change is that it makes the LIDAR a regular component, not an exceptionally expensive component.

The fact that the only working self driving system uses LIDAR might say even more.

1) make it work

2) make it right

3) make it fast (or cheap in this case)

Elon thinks his genius intellect allows him to skip to #3.