Tesla Begins Driverless Model Y RoboTaxi Tests

05/29/2025 Autos

Tesla has commenced unmanned testing of its Model Y robotaxis in Austin, Texas, several days ahead of its planned June launch. CEO Elon Musk announced on X that the tests, involving a fleet of 10 to 20 vehicles operating within a geofenced area, are proceeding without incident. This comes despite earlier reports suggesting testing hadn't begun by mid-May, leaving a very short timeframe before the commercial launch.

Concerns and Regulatory Scrutiny

The level of human remote assistance remains unclear, raising concerns about the extent of autonomous operation and the potential for human intervention to mask technical shortcomings. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has expressed its desire for more information regarding Tesla's testing methodology and safety evaluations, particularly given the reliance on a camera-only system, unlike competitors employing LiDAR and radar.

Impact on Tesla's Future

The robotaxi service holds significant importance for Tesla, especially amid recent declines in EV sales, particularly in Europe. The company's CEO has previously declared robotaxis crucial to Tesla's future, even reportedly prioritizing this service over a budget EV model.

While initially described as identical to consumer Model Ys, this statement has been contradicted internally at Tesla. The lack of transparency regarding these discrepancies and the hurried nature of the launch raise questions about the readiness and safety of this technology.