Overview

• Tesla has confirmed plans to launch unsupervised autonomous robotaxi rides in Austin, Texas, starting June 2025, using its Cybercab model.
• The Cybercab was recently showcased to Texas Department of Transportation stakeholders, signaling progress toward the upcoming launch.
• Industry experts, including former Waymo CEO John Krafcik, have raised concerns about the safety and readiness of Tesla's autonomous technology.
• Tesla faces regulatory challenges, including a California permit that does not authorize fully autonomous rides, highlighting hurdles in broader expansion efforts.
• The move into autonomous ride-hailing represents a strategic pivot for Tesla as it seeks to diversify revenue streams in response to slowing EV sales.