Tesla's Robotaxi Service Launches in Austin, Raising Eyebrows

A decade after Elon Musk's ambitious promises, Tesla has quietly launched a robotaxi service in Austin using driverless Model Y SUVs. The service, using a camera-only, end-to-end AI approach, differs significantly from competitors like Waymo. Currently operating a small fleet of around 10 2025 Model Ys in a limited area of South Austin, the service charges a flat $4.20 per ride and features a human safety monitor in the passenger seat, a departure from typical autonomous vehicle testing practices. Tesla's limited transparency and attempts to block information requests raise concerns about safety and accountability. While initial reports include minor incidents like sudden braking, Musk and Tesla celebrated the launch as a major milestone.