Tesla’s robotaxi service has officially launched in Austin, offering exclusive rides to a select group of Tesla enthusiasts and influencers. However, in order to continue operating its driverless ride-hailing electric vehicles, Tesla will need to adhere to new regulations recently signed into law by Texas Governor Greg Abbott. These regulations are set to take effect on September 1st.
According to a report by Reuters, the new law mandates that operators of Robotaxis must obtain a permit from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles before deploying them without human controllers. Additionally, the state has the authority to revoke these permits if the Robotaxis pose a threat to public safety. Operators are also required to submit plans on how they will coordinate with law enforcement and emergency responders in the event of a crash or accident.
The bill was signed into law after Democratic lawmakers in Texas wrote a letter to Tesla urging the company to disclose its plans for compliance with safety regulations. Starting September 1st, autonomous vehicle operators must demonstrate adherence to state traffic laws, utilize onboard recording devices, meet federal safety standards, and ensure that vehicles can safely stop in the event of a self-driving system failure. Furthermore, the vehicles must be registered, titled, and insured in the state of Texas.
Tesla has expressed confidence that its Robotaxis will revolutionize the industry and potentially increase the company’s valuation into the trillions of dollars. The automaker claims that these driverless vehicles are safer than human drivers, a statement that has been met with skepticism by AI and autonomous vehicle experts.
After years of delays and promises, a fleet of 10-20 self-driving Model Ys are currently operational in Austin, each equipped with a safety driver and remote human controllers for backup. However, it remains unclear whether the service is available to the general public, as it appears to be limited to a handpicked group of Tesla enthusiasts and influencers.
As the regulations come into effect, Tesla will need to navigate the new requirements to ensure the continued operation of its Robotaxi service in Texas. The company’s vision of a driverless ride-hailing future hinges on its ability to comply with these laws and address any safety concerns that may arise.