Tesla has received official approval to offer a ride-sharing service with self-driving cars in California. However, this authorisation does not cover the fully autonomous robotaxi project that the company has been working on for a long time. At the moment, the company will only be able to operate with a fleet of self-driving vehicles, meaning that permission is still required to transport passengers with fully driverless vehicles.

Tesla’s robotaxi project is delayed

In recent weeks, it was determined that Tesla had applied to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). Although this development is seen as a step for the robotaxi service that the company has been promising for years, the CPUC only approved Tesla’s driver ride-sharing using its own vehicles. Officials announced that the company does not currently have any applications for autonomous driving.

Elon Musk announced last year that they will launch a fully autonomous driving service in California and Texas in the second quarter of 2025. However, as the process progressed, it became clear that Tesla’s robotaxi plans would be limited to fleets under its own control in certain regions, rather than customer vehicles.

Musk said this system will be commissioned in Austin in June. However, there is no finalised timetable for California. The new permit offers Tesla the opportunity to expand its ride-sharing service. The company is expected to open the service, which is initially offered to its employees, to the public over time.

However, in order for Tesla to offer a fully autonomous robot taxi service, it needs to overcome many regulatory hurdles and obtain the necessary permits. So what do you think about this issue? You can share your opinions with us in the comments section below.