Tesla executives have reiterated their plans to launch a dedicated robotaxi service using the Full Self Driving (FSD) Unsupervised system in June 2025. A recent report from Insider has shed light on the preparations that Tesla has been making as it approaches its target date.
According to Insider, around 300 test operators have been driving through Austin city streets in Teslas equipped with self-driving software as part of “Project Rodeo.” Test drivers are assigned specific test routes, including critical tracks where manual interventions are discouraged and adversarial tracks that simulate challenging scenarios. Tesla has already launched a robotaxi service for its employees in Austin and the San Francisco Bay Area, with safety drivers onboard. Discussions have been held about using remote operators as safety drivers once the service goes live for consumers.
While Austin and San Francisco are the current focus areas, Tesla is also deploying test drivers in other key cities such as Atlanta, New York, Seattle, and Phoenix. Safety tests have been conducted, including training events with local first responders and simulated real-world traffic scenarios with emergency responders. Tesla is reportedly aiming for an aggressive internal deadline of June 1 for the robotaxi service launch, with VP of AI software Ashok Elluswamy’s team informing CEO Elon Musk that they are on track to meet this deadline. However, sources suggest that the June 1 deadline is more aspirational, making a June 30 launch more likely.
Overall, Tesla’s preparations for the robotaxi service launch in June 2025 are well underway, with a focus on testing, safety measures, and meeting internal deadlines. The company’s commitment to advancing autonomous driving technology is evident in its meticulous approach to preparing for this groundbreaking service.