Tesla’s Texas Robotaxi Plan Faces Legislative Pushback

Lawmakers in the state of Texas, USA, have called on Tesla to delay its planned Robotaxi launch in the city of Austin. 

Initially scheduled for 22 June 2025, the launch is now expected to be delayed until a new autonomous vehicle law comes into effect on 1 September 2025.

Public Safety First

Seven Austin-based legislators, from the Texas Senate and House, signed a letter urging Tesla to prioritise safety. The new law introduces federal guideline compliance, including SAE autonomous driving levels, to ensure safer operations.

The lawmakers argue that delaying until September will build public trust. They’ve requested Tesla provide detailed compliance plans if it proceeds with the June launch.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also demanded answers from Tesla by 19 June about its Robotaxi safety measures. Recent tests, with safety drivers reportedly moved to passenger seats, have sparked concerns about readiness.

Musk’s Ambitious Plans

Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, has long touted the Robotaxi as a milestone, despite describing it as “not truly self-driving.” He announced the Austin rollout last year, targeting June for a limited fleet of Model Y vehicles.

The 22 June date was recently confirmed, but Tesla’s history of missed autonomous driving deadlines raises doubts. Limited testing without safety drivers suggests the technology may not be ready.

The lawmakers’ request offers Tesla an opportunity to delay without admitting technical shortcomings. The new law, passed last month but awaiting the governor’s signature, requires state authorisation and emergency response protocols.

Texas has historically had lax autonomous vehicle rules. The upcoming regulations maintain this but add oversight, allowing authorities to revoke permits for unsafe vehicles.

Competitive Landscape

While Tesla aims to join Austin’s autonomous vehicle scene, Waymo already operates driverless taxis there. Protests, led by groups like The Dawn Project, highlight worries about Tesla’s Full Self-Driving software reliability.

Tesla now faces a choice: delay to align with the new law or push ahead and prove compliance. With safety and trust at stake, a postponement seems likely, giving Tesla time to refine its technology.

Also watch: Electric Vehicle Sales Set To Soar Globally In 2025: BloombergNEF