The launch of Tesla’s robotaxi service in San Francisco is scheduled for this weekend as Business Insider reports while Elon Musk implements his strategy to shift towards autonomous vehicles during declining electric vehicle sales.
The pilot program will operate within a defined geographic area that spans from Marin to San Jose according to an internal memo. The service begins after a controlled test in Austin while awaiting broader regulatory approval. Some Tesla owners will receive early access invites.
The California DMV and Public Utilities Commission have not issued necessary permits for Tesla to operate its paying passenger transportation service according to state regulators. Autonomous service deployment requires companies to fulfill multiple licensing requirements before they can start commercial operations.
Musk revealed during Tesla’s earnings call this week that the company was advancing its approval processes across California and Nevada and Florida states. Sources indicate Tesla faces challenges in achieving its goal of manufacturing 5,000 Optimus humanoid robots during the current year since the company has produced fewer than 300 units.
The robotaxi launch will strengthen Tesla’s AI messaging yet it presents potential dangers to the company. Autonomous system readiness for real-world deployment remains a concern for California regulators and safety advocates.
The reports about Tesla’s robotaxi service remain unverified because the company did not provide statements and the information could not be independently confirmed.
