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Tesla Moves Towards Launching an Uber Competitor - Slashdot

Mar 01, 2025 - tech.slashdot.org
Tesla is preparing to launch a ride-sharing service that could rival Uber, Lyft, and Waymo by applying for a transportation charter-party carrier permit from the California Public Utilities Commission. This permit would allow Tesla to own and manage its fleet of vehicles. Initial plans suggest the use of human drivers, as indicated by discussions with California officials about driver's license information and drug-testing coordination. Tesla is seeking the same permit type that Waymo uses for its robotaxi operations. Meanwhile, Uber plans to offer autonomous vehicle services with Waymo in Austin and Atlanta later this year.

Elon Musk has expressed confidence in releasing Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system in California this year, although the company has not yet applied for a permit to operate driverless vehicles. This move is seen as a step towards testing ride-hailing services before achieving full autonomy. Additionally, Tesla introduced the Cybercab, a robotaxi concept without a steering wheel or control pedals, which is expected to enter production in 2026 and be available for purchase at under $30,000.

Key takeaways:

  • Tesla is planning to launch a ride-sharing service and has applied for a transportation charter-party carrier permit in California, which would allow it to own and control its fleet of vehicles.
  • Tesla intends to use human drivers initially, as indicated by its discussions with California officials about driver's license information and drug-testing coordination.
  • Elon Musk expressed confidence in releasing unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) in California this year, although Tesla has not yet applied for a permit to operate driverless vehicles.
  • Tesla revealed the Cybercab, a robotaxi concept without a steering wheel or control pedals, which is expected to go into production in 2026 and be available for purchase for under $30,000.
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