Tesla Launches Robotaxi Rides in Austin Amidst Promises and Questions

Tesla has officially launched its robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, a decade after CEO Elon Musk first promised such a service. The deployment marks a significant test of Tesla’s approach to fully autonomous vehicles, relying solely on cameras and end-to-end AI, a method distinct from competitors like Waymo.

The robotaxi service began with early-access invitations sent to vetted customers, allowing them to hail rides using a new robotaxi app. These rides come at a flat fee of $4.20. While the exact number of invitees remains unclear, many recipients appear to be vocal Tesla supporters on X.

According to Tesla’s robotaxi information page, the service operates daily from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m., subject to weather conditions. Notably, a Tesla employee will be present in the front passenger seat as a “safety monitor.” The information page also provides instructions on app usage, lost item reporting, and rider rules. However, it lacks the detailed specifics typically offered by Waymo, which operates commercial robotaxis in multiple cities.

The initial rollout will be limited, with approximately ten 2025 Model Y SUVs operating in a specific area of South Austin, according to Elon Musk. Ed Niedermeyer, author of “Ludicrous, The Unvarnished Story of Tesla Motors,” observed a Tesla robotaxi depot near Oltorf Street, noting driverless Model Ys entering and exiting the lot with an employee behind the wheel before the launch.

On the launch day, Niedermeyer witnessed branded Tesla Model Y robotaxis leaving the holding area with an employee in the front passenger seat. He reported one instance where a robotaxi braked abruptly twice, once in an intersection, while passing police vehicles. The reason for this behavior remains unclear, as shown in a video posted on YouTube.

Information surrounding the robotaxi launch has been somewhat limited, primarily disseminated through Musk’s posts on X and Tesla’s supporters. Tesla has also faced criticism for attempting to block public records requests related to the robotaxi service.

A key element of Tesla’s strategy is the inclusion of a human “safety monitor.” The precise role and level of control these monitors will have are still undefined. While they may not actively intervene during operation, they might possess a kill switch to halt the vehicle in emergencies.

Unlike the futuristic Cybercabs revealed in October 2024, the robotaxi service utilizes 2025 Tesla Model Y vehicles equipped with a new version of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving software. Tesla will not be using the in-cabin camera by default, reserving its use for rider support requests or emergencies and to confirm the robotaxi’s readiness for the subsequent trip.

Tesla encourages riders to share their experiences through photos and videos, but it retains the right to suspend or terminate access for violations of its rules.

Following the launch, Musk and other Tesla executives celebrated the milestone on X. However, at least one rider reported requiring assistance from Tesla’s remote support team during their ride, though they later described the ride as “very smooth.”