Tesla Robotaxis Cruise Austin Without Drivers

Elon Musk recently confirmed that Tesla is conducting tests of its robotaxis in Austin, Texas, with no safety drivers or occupants present. This announcement, shared via social media, ignited a frenzy among Musk's online followers, who hailed it as a major autonomous driving breakthrough. The company's official X account further fueled the excitement with cryptic posts.

While Tesla's tests are drawing attention, the company faces stiff competition. Alphabet-owned Waymo already operates a substantial fleet of roughly 2,000 robotaxis in multiple cities, including Austin, and reports a significant number of weekly paid rides. In contrast, Tesla's invite-only program in Austin, launched in June, involves a much smaller fleet of 31 active robotaxis.

Tesla's robotaxi fleet in Austin has reportedly been involved in at least seven crashes since its June launch. Details of these incidents are difficult to obtain due to Tesla's redactions of reports to safety regulators. Musk had previously stated an expectation to operate without safety drivers in large parts of Austin by the end of 2025, a deadline that appears increasingly uncertain with limited time remaining.