Tesla tests autonomous ride-hailing service in Texas and California

In the United States, Tesla has initiated a pilot program for its Full Self-Driving (FSD) Supervised ride-hailing service in Austin, Texas, and the San Francisco Bay Area, targeting a select group of early employees. This pilot launch was announced recently via social media and highlighted significant progress, claiming over 1,500 trips and 15,000 miles driven. As Tesla attempts to showcase the viability of its autonomous technology, this service is integral for validating FSD networks, refining the accompanying mobile application, and enhancing operational aspects such as mission control and remote assistance. Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, previously asserted that the launch marks a step towards realizing their broader vision for autonomous driving technology. The company plans to initially deploy 10 or 20 Model Y vehicles equipped with updated self-driving software while preparing for a more expansive rollout across the United States later this year. The goal is to glean valuable data from this testing phase to inform the development of a dedicated autonomous model known as the Cybercab, which is expected to enter production next year. Interestingly, investors are keenly observing the outcomes of this initiative. With Tesla’s core automotive segment facing challenges—evidenced by a 13% decline in vehicle sales in the first quarter—many hope that the successful launch and scaling of the robotaxi service could rejuvenate the company's financial health. Analysts speculate that the long-term value of Tesla's stock is closely tied to its success in establishing a profitable driverless car service model, which necessitates overcoming significant technological hurdles. Looking forward, Musk expressed optimism that by the second half of 2026, millions of Teslas could be operating fully autonomously. This ambitious prediction aims to align with future demands for shared mobility solutions. However, some experts urge caution, highlighting the importance of demonstrating safety and operational reliability before wider adoption can be achieved. Investors and analysts are particularly interested in concrete metrics that explain the operational costs and safety records of the autonomous driving technology in Austin, as they serve as critical indicators of the service’s future viability. As the pilot progresses, it offers an essential opportunity for Tesla to refine its strategy and prove its technology ahead of a national rollout.