Tesla and Musk are getting ready for the big debut. It was 2016 when Musk first mentioned robotaxis, and both he and the brand’s fans have been waiting for this to finally become a reality.
Far from bragging, the magnate has admitted he is “extremely paranoid” about the whole thing. He’s not just saying it. There are plenty of reasons: technical issues, legal hurdles, and a complicated history with California. The road ahead is anything but a highway…
What are we talking about?
The Robotaxi! Tesla’s famous self-driving car. According to reports, this service based on Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology has racked up over 3.6 billion miles… without anyone touching the wheel. That’s right, the miles have been covered by volunteer testers, but taking it from that to launching it as an autonomous transportation service…
The Cybercab prototype was discarded, so they’re starting with a small fleet of Model Y vehicles in Austin. Very discreet, very supervised. And if it goes well, they’ll scale it. But of course… Texas is one thing, getting into other states with heavier traffic is something else entirely.
Starting with 10 cars
The plan is simple: Tesla will put 10 robotaxis on the road in Austin to see how the system performs in a real environment. It will be a testing phase, with constant monitoring and no wild promises of immediate expansion. One step at a time. Good for them, it’s about time for a bit of caution.
What is FSD?
Full Self-Driving is Tesla’s autonomous driving system. In theory, it allows the car to drive on its own. In practice, it still requires the driver to stay alert in case things go wrong. The problem is that Tesla has marketed this system as if it were magic (including the name “Autopilot”), and that has led to legal conflicts over consumer deception.
“Look mom… no hands!”
Tesla boasts that FSD has tripled its hands-free mileage compared to last year. Impressive? Yes. Does it mean it will work legally and safely everywhere? No.
Why are they staying away from California?
California used to be Tesla’s home until Musk moved the company’s headquarters to Austin in 2021. Now, the rules governing autonomous driving are much stricter than they were.
The California DMV announced they are seeking public input on proposed regulations for these vehicles to offer complete rules that also highlight their commitment to public safety.
And of course… those rules would require Tesla to have a permit to conduct tests with a human driver on board until a certain number of test hours are completed…
Old disputes with the DMV
The relationship between Tesla and California is anything but friendly… In 2022, the DMV accused the company of deceptive advertising over the Autopilot issue. Tesla tried to avoid trial, but in 2024 a judge allowed the case to move forward. So the atmosphere is far from ideal to propose anything new.
More control, more paperwork
Since October 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom has given even more power to the DMV to review, modify, and even revoke permits. Any misstep and the project could collapse in a matter of days. Tesla will have to tread very carefully.
What are they aiming for?
In theory, Tesla wants to lead the robotaxi market, generate passive income for car owners, and change the way we move through cities. But theory is one thing and practice is something very different.
Paranoia? Maybe, but it makes sense
Musk has said they’ll start with a few cars to reduce risk. He knows he can’t afford a mistake. Not technical, not legal. In this case, his “paranoia” seems more like common sense.
What if it works?
If the pilot in Austin works and they manage to meet California’s requirements, Tesla could open the door to a new and very profitable business, and we’d have the future right in front of our noses!