Tesla has officially initiated its highly anticipated robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, albeit with a cautious rollout and mixed initial feedback. The program, currently operating on an invite-only basis, deploys a limited fleet of 10-20 Model Y vehicles branded as “Robotaxi” within a geofenced area of the city. A notable aspect of the trial is the presence of safety monitors in the front passenger seat, acting as a human failsafe. Operating hours are restricted to 6 AM to 12 AM daily.
Early reactions, particularly from Tesla enthusiasts, have been largely neutral. While the company unveiled a dedicated webpage detailing service guidelines, some users reported challenges locating designated pickup points. Ride experiences have been described as generally uneventful, with impressions ranging from “smooth” to “normal.”
Tesla intends to extend its robotaxi service to California in the near future, with ambitions of deploying a fleet of a thousand autonomous vehicles in the coming months. The Austin pilot program will serve as a crucial testing ground for refining the technology and addressing potential operational challenges before broader expansion. The program operates in a small area of Austin and more information can be found on The Verge’s website.