
Months after navigating regulatory compliance and technical challenges, electric vehicle (EV) maker Tesla is reportedly planning to offer its Tesla robotaxi rides to the public starting June 22.
Citing Tesla CEO Elon Musk, Reuters reported that this long-wanted Tesla robotaxi launch comes amid investors and enthusiasts awaiting to embrace it.
The development serves as a nod to Musk's tremendous investment and commitment to directing Tesla’s future in self-driving technology, a move ditching plans for becoming a more affordable EV platform, something on which much of the company's valuation rides.
Despite Musk's enthusiasm and dedication, the commercialisation of autonomous vehicles (AV) has faced challenges in the US, including safety concerns, regulations, and investment costs, leading to uncertaint about his plans.
“We are being super paranoid about safety, so the date could shift,” He noted while responding to a question about the Tesla robotaxi rides, which will initially be available in Austin, Texas.
From June 28 onwards, Tesla vehicles will start driving themselves from the factory to customers' homes.
The notable part of the Tesla robotaxi service launch is that initially, the service in Austin will comprise 10-20 Model Y SUVs operating under remote human supervision in a limited, specified area, with plans to expand it to other US states later this year, including California.