Tesla’s Robotaxi Era Begins: First Driverless Rides Roll Out in Austin

Tesla has launched its first Robotaxi rides in Austin, Texas. It's the company’s boldest step toward full self-driving - the era of autonomous mobility may finally be here.

1. Karalee Greer & WBN News Vancouver & WBN News Global

Jun 23, 2025 - 1 min read

By Karalee Greer | WBN News – Vancouver | June 23, 2025 Subscription to WBN and being a Contributor is Free.

On June 22, 2025, Tesla officially launched its first public Robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, marking the most advanced deployment yet of its Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology. The pilot program includes a fleet of 10 Model Y vehicles, operating in a geo-fenced area of the city with no steering wheels or pedals.

The rides—offered to select Tesla investors and influencers—were priced at a flat $4.20, with Tesla employees seated in the front passenger seat for oversight. Despite a few hiccups like lane hesitation and intersection pauses, riders reported a largely smooth and safe experience.

🔗 Reuters – Tesla rolls out robotaxis in Texas
🔗 TechCrunch – Unanswered Questions Remain

A Brief History of Tesla’s Autonomy Push

Tesla’s autonomous journey began with Autopilot in 2015, followed by Full Self-Driving Beta (FSD) in 2020. Elon Musk promised Robotaxis by 2020, but regulatory and technical delays pushed that timeline to 2025. Now, the first public tests are finally live.

The technology relies solely on Tesla Vision—cameras, neural networks, and onboard AI chips—eschewing lidar and radar used by competitors like Waymo.

Tesla’s Robotaxi runs are enabled under Texas legislation that limits local interference with autonomous vehicle deployment. A broader statewide permitting process will begin in late 2025.

📈 What’s Next?

Tesla plans to expand its Robotaxi fleet across more U.S. cities and launch a purpose-built, no-wheel “Cybercab” by 2026. For now, Austin remains ground zero for Tesla’s bold autonomous future.

🔗 Washington Post – Tesla Robotaxi in Austin

Tesla’s Robotaxi dream may have arrived later than promised—but for now, it’s real, it’s live, and it’s turning heads in Austin.

Editor: Karalee Greer Subscription to WBN and being a Contributor is Free.

TAGS: #WBN News Global #Tesla Robotaxi #Autonomous Vehicles #Elon Musk #Self Driving Cars #Future Of Transport #WBN News Vancouver