Key Takeaways
1. Tesla has launched its Robotaxi service with driverless rides in Austin using Model Y vehicles, with plans to expand to other cities.
2. The Robotaxi service aims to be more affordable than competitors like Uber and Waymo, with projected costs of $0.20 per mile and fares starting at $0.30/mile.
3. Currently, only a small fleet of Model Y cars are operational in Austin, and rides are initially available by invitation only through a special Robotaxi app.
4. During the introductory phase, Tesla is charging a flat rate of $4.20 per ride within a set area, reflecting Elon Musk’s preference for the number 420.
5. Local lawmakers in Austin are considering licensing procedures for autonomous vehicles, while Tesla has prepared for compliance and has trained first responders on handling Robotaxi situations.
Tesla has officially rolled out its Robotaxi service, starting with driverless rides in a fleet of Model Y vehicles in Austin. They have also set up a specific Robotaxi X account and a signup page for the future expansion to other cities.
Pricing and Competition
The Tesla Robotaxi service aims to be more affordable than its main competitors, Uber and Waymo. Rides can be booked through a special Robotaxi app, which is currently available only on iOS.
At the unveiling of the two-seater Cybercab, Elon Musk projected that operating costs could fall to around $0.20 per mile, with ride fares beginning at just $0.30/mile once fully implemented.
Current Availability
Although these prices are much lower than those of Uber, Lyft, or Waymo, they pertain specifically to Cybercab rides “at scale.” Tesla is still in the early stages of its Robotaxi rollout, with only about a dozen driverless Model Y cars operating in Austin.
Starting June 22, rides during the initial Early Access phase will be available by invitation only. The app isn’t accessible to the general public who might want to try out the driverless Model Y.
Special Rates and Local Regulations
For this introductory period, Tesla plans to charge a flat rate of $4.20 per ride within a designated area, no matter the distance traveled. This price seems to be a playful nod to Elon Musk’s affinity for the number 420. However, the true competitiveness of the Robotaxi service remains uncertain as it expands.
Austin has welcomed a total of six autonomous vehicle services so far, making Tesla’s Robotaxi platform the latest addition. The choice of Texas was strategic, as the state does not have a special permitting process for self-driving vehicles, provided they are registered and insured.
Legislative Changes in Austin
Now, a few local lawmakers have suggested implementing a licensing procedure that requires manufacturers to meet certain compliance standards, such as ensuring communication with law enforcement and first responders in case of an emergency. Tesla proceeded with the Robotaxi launch in Austin after being assured they could meet any new requirements included in the bill before the September 1 deadline.
Tesla has already conducted training sessions with Austin’s first responders on how to handle situations involving Robotaxis. Additionally, the city’s Public Works committee has indicated their support for the service, noting a remarkably low crash incident rate of less than 7% for fully autonomous vehicle operations in the area.
Pilot Launch Details
The pilot launch of the Robotaxi in Austin has been meticulously organized, involving a select group of automotive influencers as passengers, a safety monitor from Tesla seated in the front, and operating within a geofenced area that has been thoroughly mapped ahead of time.
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