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Tesla to Launch Invite-Only Robotaxi Service in Austin

The trial will validate Tesla’s Full Self-Driving technology with passenger-seat safety monitors

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SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 10: In an aerial view, Waymo cars are seen parked at a Waymo facility on June 10, 2025 in San Francisco, California. Robo-taxi company Waymo has limited service in San Francisco after several Waymo cars were set on fire and destroyed during the anti-immigration protests in Los Angeles over the past week. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Invitations have gone out to Tesla influencers and select employees for rides in a geofenced zone that excludes airports
  • The launch will deploy about 10 to 20 Model Y SUVs equipped with a supervised version of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving software
  • Each trip will include a Tesla safety monitor in the front passenger seat and remote operators standing by to intervene
  • Tesla notes the June 22 debut is tentative due to possible weather disruptions and ongoing NHTSA investigations into its self-driving system
  • Established rivals like Waymo already operate commercial driverless taxis in Austin, underscoring competitive pressure on Tesla