Tesla has announced to start June 2025 its first commercial robotaxi service in Austin, Texasto start. CEO Elon Musk confirmed these plans during the Q4 2024 Earnings Call and emphasized that the launch will take place gradually and with the highest safety priority.
Unsupervised FSD: Tesla's first real autonomy test
The new Robotaxi service is based on FSD Unsupervisedwhich is designed to operate completely autonomously without human intervention for the first time. This sets the service apart from previous FSD versionswhere drivers still have to intervene at all times.
Musk explained:
"We will launch Full Self-Driving as a paid service in Austin in June - without a driver in the vehicle."
How will the rollout work?
- Phase 1 (from June 2025): Tesla Starts with a dedicated fleet of robotaxis in Austin.
- Phase 2 (from 2026): Private owners can use their Tesla-vehicles into the ride-hailing network.
Musk emphasized that payment processes, customer experience and security must first be validated before private vehicles become part of the network.
Why Austin as a test market?
Tesla has chosen Austin as the first city for the rollout because:
✔ The regulatory conditions are more favorable.
✔ Giga Texas offers the infrastructure as a production location.
✔ Tesla maintains close cooperation with local authorities.
Expansion: When will other cities be added?
Elon Musk confirmed that the Robotaxi program to several US cities by the end of 2025. will be expanded. Originally, a planned to launch in California at the same timebut the launch there is now scheduled for later in 2025.
Targets for 2026:
- Nationwide rollout in the USA (depending on regulatory approvals).
- Potential expansion into international markets.
Tesla's approach: AI instead of expensive sensor technology
In contrast to Waymo or Cruisewho rely on HD maps and LiDAR sensors uses Tesla its camera-based Tesla vision technologywhich has been trained over billions of kilometers of driving.
Musk comments:
"Our solution doesn't require high-precision maps - it's based on generalized AI. We are testing Austin first, but the technology is already working worldwide."
Conclusion: Tesla Getting serious about robotaxis
With the launch of the first real FSD Unsupervised service sets Tesla a new milestone in autonomous driving. If the concept is successful in Austin, it could Tesla revolutionize the mobility industry and further extend its lead in AI-supported vehicle technology.
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