Tesla has launched its long-anticipated robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, marking a pivotal step in CEO Elon Musk's vision to revolutionize autonomous transportation. The initial phase utilizes the Model Y SUV, while the specialized Cybercab remains in development.
Musk celebrated the milestone on X, praising Tesla's AI and chip design teams: "Super congratulations to the @Tesla_AI software & chip design teams on a successful @Robotaxi launch!! This is the culmination of a decade of hard work."
The launch follows recent tensions between Musk and U.S. political leadership, though the entrepreneur has since expressed regret for some statements. Analysts suggest the move could redefine Tesla's market trajectory, with Wedbush's Daniel Ives projecting autonomous tech might unlock over $1 trillion in added value. "Skeptics doubted this day would come," Ives noted, "but Tesla just shifted the mobility paradigm."
While currently U.S.-focused, the development holds implications for global markets as automakers worldwide accelerate autonomous vehicle research. Tesla's Texas-based team continues refining AI systems critical to scaling the service.
