Tesla's Robotaxi Introduction Includes Stringent Regulations and a 'Safety Monitor' | Carscoops

      Initially, there will be a human present in the front seat.

      Tesla plans to launch its Robotaxi service on June 22, with specific rules for early access passengers.

      Passengers are required to agree to terms, pay with a card, and stay within designated geo-fenced boundaries. Additionally, a Tesla employee will accompany every Robotaxi ride for enhanced safety and supervision.

      On June 22, Tesla is set to introduce its Robotaxi service for select early access customers. Invitations are being sent out, containing more information including the rules for passengers and the presence of a Tesla employee in the passenger seat as a “safety monitor.” Here’s everything you need to know regarding Tesla’s Robotaxi launch.

      We have observed Tesla conducting tests of its Robotaxi in Austin, Texas, and much of what we witnessed during those tests will be mirrored in this new early access initiative, which will feature a Model Y as part of the fleet and a human in the front passenger seat.

      The Details

      In recent days, Tesla has begun inviting individuals to test the Robotaxi starting June 22. The invitations include a comprehensive list of mandates and limitations. For instance, riders are limited to one additional passenger, must review the Terms of Service prior to riding, have a credit or debit card on file, and are encouraged to provide feedback after their journey.

      Notably, invitees are advised to inform Tesla of their participation so that they can receive the Robotaxi rideshare application. The service will be operational from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. within a geo-fenced area established by Tesla in Austin. The automaker has indicated that the service may be restricted or unavailable during inclement weather.

      Tesla has authorized me to share the usage guidelines for their Model Y Robotaxi service set to commence this Sunday, June 22, in Austin, Texas, as the Early Access phase is invitation-only. The Usage Guidelines include:

      • Agreement to the attached Terms of Service,…

      Certain restrictions are in place, which are mostly self-evident. Riders are prohibited from drinking, using drugs, vaping, or smoking within the Robotaxi. They cannot use the Robotaxi for illegal activities or to transport weapons or hazardous materials. If riders violate these rules, Tesla reserves the right to suspend their access to the Robotaxi service. Importantly, riders can record video and take photos during their journey, so expect to see plenty of that starting Sunday.

      Expectation vs. Reality

      Tesla and CEO Elon Musk have promoted this launch for quite some time. Musk has confidently asserted (yet again) that Full Self-Driving would achieve Level 5 autonomy this year. Clearly, this is not the situation since a safety monitor will be present in the vehicle for every ride. The limited service based on specific hours, GPS restrictions, and expected weather issues casts a less favorable view on this launch as well.

      However, it is reassuring to observe Tesla taking this launch seriously enough to have an employee in the vehicle. This undoubtedly affects the availability dependent on timing. The geo-restricted navigation is straightforward and similar to offerings from other brands like Waymo.

      Ultimately, whether one appreciates or disapproves of Tesla and/or Elon Musk, increased competition in the Robotaxi sector appears beneficial. However, everything hinges on ensuring the safety of these vehicles for both passengers and the surrounding public. More details will emerge in just a few days.

      Here are the complete set of rules:

      • You must read and agree to the attached Terms of Service, Rider Rules, Robotaxi Rider Privacy Notice, and Service Animal Policy.

      • You must have a credit/debit card on file.

      • You may request a ride through the app within the geo-fenced area, excluding airports, from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM (midnight) daily. These operational hours are subject to change. A map of the geo-fenced area is accessible in the app.

      • Be aware that service may be limited or unavailable due to inclement weather.

      • Only the invitee is permitted to download and use the Robotaxi App to request a ride.

      • Please be respectful and treat the service with consideration. Your participation in this Early Access program may be revoked for various reasons, including violating these rules or engaging in unsafe and/or disrespectful conduct.

      • Provide a star rating and feedback based on your experience in the app.

      • Capturing photos and videos of the experience is permitted.

      • Smoking, vaping, consuming alcohol, and using drugs inside the Robotaxi is prohibited.

      • The Robotaxi must not be used for any criminal activities or to transport weapons or illegal or hazardous materials.

      • Any instruments or equipment intended to record, measure, reverse engineer, or conduct surveillance on Tesla Robotaxi features are strictly forbidden (including bringing devices onboard for the purpose of obtaining competitive, proprietary, or non-public information about the Robotaxi).

      • Tesla may suspend or terminate access to the Robotaxi if you violate these rules, including disseminating content on social media