Tesla’s Robotaxis Hit the Road: Will They Deliver?

Tesla’s latest venture into autonomous vehicles is now underway with a live robotaxi pilot launched in Austin, Texas.

Elon Musk called it the “culmination of a decade of hard work,” marking a pivotal step in Tesla’s attempt to lead the driverless revolution. The test involves a handful of Model Y vehicles operating with no drivers, just safety monitors in the front seat, and offering $4.20 rides within a designated zone.

While the launch is symbolically and technically significant, it comes at a time when Tesla’s dominance is under pressure.

Musk recently ended his alliance with Donald Trump, a move that may help Tesla distance itself from political controversy that has impacted its public image and sales.

However, the company is also facing losses in Europe, falling EV sales in the U.S., and stiffer competition from Chinese and hybrid vehicle manufacturers. With its Full Self-Driving (FSD) software still rated at level 2, Tesla’s future now hinges on whether it can scale this service and deliver on long-promised autonomy.