US iPhone users can now download the Robotaxi app from Tesla, allowing them to sign up for a ride with the autonomous vehicles
Tesla's Robotaxi Service Expands to Public, but with Safety Measures
Tesla's highly anticipated Robotaxi service has taken a significant step forward, now available for download on Apple's iPhone. This move marks the expansion of the service beyond a carefully curated list of VIPs and early adopters, signalling a move towards the wider public.
However, it's important to note that Tesla's Robotaxi service is currently a "larger-scale Full Self-Driving (FSD) demonstration ride" rather than a truly autonomous taxi service. A safety driver remains in the driver's seat, ready to take control if necessary. The safety monitor, who was previously seated in the passenger seat, has now been moved behind the wheel.
The exact number of vehicles added to the fleet or the size of the expanded geofenced operating area in Austin, Texas, has not been disclosed. Tesla has also not specified how long it will take before users can hail a ride or if the service extends beyond Austin to San Francisco or other cities, such as New York City, where it has recently been deployed.
The Robotaxi service now operates on faster sections of highway, providing a smoother ride for passengers. Android users will be able to download a dedicated Robotaxi app in the coming months.
In August, Tesla stated that it has increased the number of available cars by 50%, according to an X post. However, the current number of vehicles Tesla is running has not been disclosed.
Meanwhile, competition in the electric vehicle market is heating up. Xiaomi has unveiled a new Model Y rival that beats Tesla on price and has smashed pre-order records. Tesla has responded with enticing deals to boost sales, slashing its monthly UK leasing prices and offering attractive US deals.
Tesla's Model Y Performance has also been unveiled, a family SUV that is faster than a Porsche 911. But in the race for autonomous taxi services, Tesla still lags behind companies like Waymo, which has more than 2,000 fully autonomous vehicles operating in six major cities and regions in the US, without anyone behind the wheel.
As Tesla continues to develop its Robotaxi service, it will be interesting to see how the company navigates the complexities of autonomous driving and stays competitive in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.
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