Tesla Advances Robotaxi Testing Without Safety Drivers in Austin

Tesla has initiated testing of its robotaxis in Austin, Texas, without safety drivers on board, marking a crucial step in the company's autonomous vehicle ambitions. CEO Elon Musk confirmed via social media that testing is underway with no occupants in the vehicles.

This development follows a phased approach, beginning with a limited Robotaxi service launched in June that initially included safety monitors. As of now, the fleet in Austin consists of about 30 active robotaxis, which have been involved in at least seven crashes since testing began.

Critics point out that while Tesla showcases this advancement, competitors like Waymo have a more established fleet, operating around 2,000 robotaxis with a record of over 450,000 weekly paid rides. The absence of safety drivers has raised concerns about safety and regulatory compliance, especially since details about the incidents involving Tesla's test fleet are scant due to the company's practice of redacting accident reports.

Tesla's stock reacted positively to the news, closing at a 2025 high, reflecting investor optimism about the company's progress towards fully autonomous driving capabilities. As Tesla pushes forward, it remains to be seen how these developments will be received by regulators and the public, especially given the mixed track record of autonomous vehicle testing in urban environments.