Tesla is preparing to launch a robotaxi service in San Francisco. About this informs Reuters.
Developing the autonomous taxi business is of strategic importance to the company, especially given CEO Elon Musk’s warning of likely tough quarters due to unfavorable government policies on electric vehicles.
Last month, Tesla already conducted limited testing of the robotaxi in Austin, Texas. It used about a dozen Model Y SUVs, a few select passengers, and security controllers in the front passenger seats.
The new service will serve Tesla car owners who will pay for trips within the designated zone. It covers most of the Bay Area, including Marin, the East Bay, San Francisco, and extends to San Jose.
However, California regulators said Tesla has not yet filed the necessary applications to obtain permits to carry passengers and charge for rides in fully autonomous vehicles. To implement such services, companies must obtain the appropriate permits from the California Department of Motor Vehicles and the State Public Utilities Commission.
During a recent earnings call, Elon Musk said Tesla is already receiving regulatory approvals to launch robotaxis in several states, including California, Nevada, Arizona and Florida.
