Tesla launches long-discussed robotaxi service
Elon Musk’s decade-long robotaxi vision takes its first steps, utilising the Tesla Model Y initially
Tesla began offering robotaxi services Sunday in the US city of Austin, Texas, an initial step that Elon Musk’s backers believe could lead to the company’s next growth wave.
“Super congratulations to the @Tesla_AI software & chip design teams on a successful @Robotaxi launch!!” Musk posted on the X platform that he owns.
“Culmination of a decade of hard work.”
The kickoff - which comes as Musk refocuses on his business ventures following a contentious stint in Donald Trump’s administration - will employ the Model Y sport utility vehicle rather than Tesla’s much-touted Cybercab, which is still under development.
The long-awaited launch follows the dramatic meltdown earlier this month in relations between the US president and the world’s richest person, which saw a cascade of bitter attacks from both men.