Tesla Launches Limited Robotaxi Service Austin Amid Safety Regulator Scrutiny

Tesla recently launched a limited robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, featuring a fleet of fewer than 20 Model Y vehicles operating in a geofenced area with safety monitors onboard. Early reports and widely shared videos revealed several driving errors, such as hesitation, driving on the wrong side of the street, and stopping in crosswalks, which prompted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to contact Tesla for further information. Despite the issues, some analysts praised the service as a glimpse into the future of autonomous transportation, while public opinion remains deeply divided, with some viewing it as evidence of Tesla's overconfidence and others as a serious challenge to competitors like Waymo and Uber. Tesla's approach relies solely on cameras and AI, distinguishing it from rivals that use different sensor technologies. Meanwhile, Tesla faces additional company challenges, including executive departures and planned layoffs. This rollout marks a significant but contentious milestone in the broader autonomous vehicle race, highlighting both the potential and the risks of Tesla's vision.