Tesla Launches First Paid Robotaxi Service in Austin Using Only Cameras
Tesla has launched its first paid robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, using only cameras for navigation, a departure from rivals like Waymo and Zoox that rely on lidar and radar. CEO Elon Musk has long promised this service, and it's now ready to scale, despite Texas' new permit requirements for autonomous vehicles.
Tesla's robotaxi service, which uses no lidar or radar, aims to cut costs and scale faster than competitors. It marks the company's first foray into paid self-driving rides, with about 10 modified Model Ys spotted in Austin on Sunday.
The service is initially limited to a small area and avoids challenging conditions like bad weather and complex intersections. Passengers, who must be at least 18 years old, were seen sitting up front, likely acting as safety monitors. Texas has updated its rules, requiring companies to apply for permits before operating self-driving cars on public roads.
Tesla's robotaxi service in Austin is a significant step towards Musk's vision of a self-driving future. Despite the limited initial scope and Texas' new permit requirements, the service signals Tesla's commitment to autonomous vehicle technology. It joins other companies like Waymo and Zoox in the Texas market, each with its own approach to self-driving cars.
