Yes, the avoidance of LIDAR is some combination of stubbornness and cheapness. Couple that with the fact that the cameras used for vision-only are.. quite bad resolution wise. Like 10 year old iPhone bad, for the new HW4.. the HW3 & prior even worse. Does not inspire confidence.
Yes, plus the ever shifting deadlines make me think this is all being somewhat rushed, to finally deliver what they promised ages ago. I personally don't want to use tech like this if it has been rushed. Realistic deadlines with a smooth landing and stable narrative are what you need to inspire confidence.
Cyber truck build quality was also a red flag, suggesting that pthe company lacks rigor.
