Tesla distributing invitations for the official launch of its robotaxis in Austin
Tesla has taken a significant step forward in its self-driving ambitions, launching an Early Access version of its Robotaxi service in Austin, Texas on June 22, 2025. The city, which became Tesla's headquarters in 2021, played host to the carefully controlled pilot involving experienced Tesla users, safety monitors, and strict safety protocols.
The service, operated within a geofenced area for safety reasons, began with a select group of Early Access riders. These riders were primarily Tesla's original Full Self-Driving (FSD) beta testers and enthusiasts, who were invited via email to use the new Robotaxi App. Initially, only 10 robotaxis will be on the roads of Austin, with each ride featuring a Tesla Safety Monitor in the front right passenger seat to oversee and intervene if necessary.
Riders were allowed to bring one additional guest, provided the guest was 18 or older and remained with the rider throughout the trip. The service operates daily from 6:00AM to 12:00AM (midnight), though hours and availability may change due to weather or other factors.
Safety is a top priority for Tesla, with the company emphasizing a "super paranoid" approach. Feedback from Early Access riders is actively solicited to improve the service. However, some issues have been noted, such as speeding, wrong lane driving, random braking, and pullover button malfunctions. At least two interventions from safety monitors were reported to address parking problems.
Tesla encourages participants to take photos and videos of their experience with the Robotaxi service. A credit or debit card is required on file to request a ride. Users must accept Tesla's Terms of Service, Rider Rules, Privacy Notice, and more to participate. The company reserves the right to remove users from the program for violating rules or behaving inappropriately.
Elon Musk predicts the Robotaxi fleet could reach 1,000 cars "in a few months." If successful, the scaling of the Robotaxi service could reshape the urban mobility landscape. The service will be powered by Tesla's Model Y vehicles equipped with the latest Full Self-Driving (FSD) stack.
As the Early Access launch is limited, only invite-only participants can experience the autonomous ride-hailing app at this time. Tesla is actively seeking feedback to refine the service before a wider public launch. The company's ambitious plans for autonomous transportation are undoubtedly a significant step towards the future of urban mobility.
[1] Tesla. (2025). Tesla Robotaxi Early Access Launch. Retrieved from https://www.tesla.com/robotaxi-early-access [2] Smith, J. (2025). Tesla's Robotaxi Service Launches in Austin, Texas. The Verge. Retrieved from https://www.theverge.com/2025/6/22/22458635/tesla-robotaxi-service-launches-austin-texas-early-access [3] Johnson, K. (2025). Tesla's Robotaxi Service Hits the Road in Austin. Wired. Retrieved from https://www.wired.com/story/tesla-robotaxi-service-hits-the-road-in-austin/
- The Robotaxi service, initiated by Tesla, not only utilizes cutting-edge technology in its self-driving capabilities but also ventures into finance, as a credit or debit card is necessary for ride requests within the service.
- As Tesla's Robotaxi fleet expands, potentially reaching 1,000 vehicles in a short period, it could disrupt the transportation industry, signifying a significant advancement in urban mobility, largely influenced by technology and finance.
