Tesla launches robotaxi service with restrictions

In the city of Austin in the US state of Texas, users selected by Tesla have been able to book rides in some cars without a human at the wheel via an app since Sunday. The electric car manufacturer initially sought out online influencers who were friendly to the company.

The offer is initially limited to a manageable part of downtown Austin. Musk had previously announced that only 10 to 20 vehicles would be available at the start. At the same time, he claims that most new Tesla cars already have all the necessary technology on board to drive autonomously. He therefore speaks of millions of self-driving Teslas on the roads and a share of more than 90 percent of the robotaxi business for his company.

Doubts about Musk's concept

However, experts and rivals have doubts about how reliably Teslas can drive autonomously, as Musk only wants to rely on cameras and not on the more expensive laser radars that scan the surroundings. This technology is also used by Waymo, currently the leading robotaxi provider by far. Waymo now has over 1500 cars and more than 250,000 trips with passengers without a human at the wheel. However, Tesla would have a considerable cost advantage if Musk's bet on cameras works out.

Tesla uses Model Y cars in Austin. Production of a special robotaxi vehicle without a steering wheel and pedals is due to start next year. An employee of the company currently sits in the passenger seat and can stop the cars if necessary. Passengers also have to register with him using their apps, as can be seen from some experience reports. Many of the Tesla robotaxis are followed by an escort vehicle - and they can also be controlled remotely. Waymo is operating completely autonomously in a much larger area of Austin.