Tesla (TSLA, Financial) is gearing up to launch its highly anticipated autonomous taxi service, Robotaxi, in Austin, Texas. This move marks a significant milestone in CEO Elon Musk's strategy to reshape the company with self-driving technology and artificial intelligence. Insiders have revealed that internal discussions have set the launch date for June 12, although this is subject to change. Musk had previously mentioned plans to roll out the service by the end of June.
To prepare for the launch, Tesla recently conducted its first public road tests in Austin. A Model Y SUV achieved full self-driving without remote control, with only an engineer in the passenger seat. Tesla has not commented on these developments. The company has been testing with safety drivers and conducting employee-only trials before public release.
Musk emphasized that the initial service will use existing consumer models, with plans to introduce a specialized vehicle, the Cybercab, in the future. Last year, Tesla showcased the Cybercab prototype, which lacks a steering wheel and pedals, at a high-profile event in California.
Texas, where Tesla's headquarters is located, is relatively open to autonomous vehicles, requiring them to have cameras, follow traffic laws, and carry insurance. However, Tesla is not yet listed as a ride-hailing operator by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
