Tesla Is Testing Robotaxis Without Safety Drivers – Or Riders (gizmodo.com)

Elon Musk announced Tesla is testing its robotaxis in Austin without safety drivers and passengers, drawing significant attention online. A video surfaced showing a Tesla robotaxi navigating the city autonomously, igniting excitement among Musk's followers who touted it as a substantial advancement in autonomous vehicle technology. Musk and Tesla's AI chief, Ashok Elluswamy, confirmed these tests, adding to the anticipation surrounding Tesla's progress in the autonomous vehicle sector. This development is particularly significant given that Tesla's main competitor, Waymo, has already established a robust fleet of 2,000 robotaxis with a proven track record, offering paid rides across several cities. While Tesla's recent foray into Austin began with a limited invite-only program featuring safety monitors, the company still faces challenges regarding safety performance, with its small fleet reportedly involved in multiple accidents. Musk previously set an ambitious goal to eliminate safety drivers by the end of the year, raising questions about whether Tesla can meet this timeline amidst the competition and safety concerns.