Tesla has finally launched its Robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, after several delays. The service is currently limited to a geofenced area in the South end of the city, covering around 30 square miles. Invited Tesla fans are the primary users of the service, with each ride limited to two passengers.
To access the Robotaxi service, users must download a separate app and register with their Tesla account. The app allows users to request a ride within the service area, and if the destination is outside the area, the app will drop them off near the edge of the service zone.
The first videos of the Robotaxi rides show Tesla Model Y vehicles operating without a driver in the driver’s seat. Instead, a safety monitor sits in the passenger seat, with backup teleoperators available. The ride experience includes familiar settings carried over from the users’ own Tesla vehicles, such as music preferences and interface features.
Feedback from early users has been positive, with many praising the smooth ride and advanced capabilities of the system. The Robotaxi service also includes a support button for users to connect with remote help if needed. At the end of the ride, users have the option to rate their experience and leave a “tip.”
Despite the successful launch, Tesla still has challenges ahead in scaling the service and achieving true driverless operation. The company’s promises on full self-driving have been met with skepticism in the past, and the road to fully autonomous vehicles is still uncertain.
Overall, the launch of Tesla’s Robotaxi service marks a significant milestone in the development of autonomous driving technology. While the company may be behind competitors like Waymo, the potential for rapid scaling and improvement remains a key focus for Tesla in the coming years.
