Tesla FSD Supervised Ride-Hail Tests Begin - Austin & Bay Area

Tesla Initiates Employee Testing of Autonomous Ride-Hailing Service

Tesla has commenced trials of its autonomous ride-hail service, engaging employees in both Austin and the San Francisco Bay Area. This precedes the anticipated launch of the company’s robotaxi service later this summer.

Service Rollout and FSD Details

The company announced on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday that the “FSD Supervised ride-hailing service” is now accessible to a select group of employees in the aforementioned locations.

FSD, which represents “Full Self-Driving,” is Tesla’s advanced driver-assistance system. It’s currently offered to Tesla owners through a subscription model, enabling certain automated driving functionalities.

It’s important to note that the current system necessitates periodic driver intervention – maintaining hands on the wheel – and doesn't yet achieve full autonomy. However, a substantial number of Tesla owners are already utilizing supervised FSD for their daily commutes.

Tesla’s recent announcement highlights the introduction of a “Robotaxi” application. This app is envisioned for use by individuals who do not own Tesla vehicles, allowing them to summon a vehicle from the company’s autonomous fleet.

Industry Standard Testing Procedures

Employing personnel for pre-launch testing is a common practice within the autonomous ride-hail sector. Waymo, for instance, follows a similar strategy when expanding into new geographic markets.

Prior to a commercial launch, and following extensive driverless testing phases, Waymo typically grants access to its service to employees before extending invitations to select members of the public.

Launch Plans and Vehicle Deployment

Tesla intends to launch its robotaxi service in Austin during June, a plan reaffirmed during the company’s first-quarter earnings call on Tuesday.

Specific details regarding the implementation of ride charges were not disclosed during the call. CEO Elon Musk indicated an initial deployment of 10 to 20 vehicles on the first day of service in Austin.

Current Vehicle Fleet and Interior Features

While Tesla unveiled the futuristic Cybercab concept last year – a robotaxi design devoid of a steering wheel or pedals – the company is preparing to initiate operations utilizing its existing vehicle portfolio.

A promotional video released by Tesla on Wednesday showcased a Model 3 sedan. This vehicle has been equipped with a rear passenger screen displaying crucial information.

The screen provides details such as estimated arrival times, climate and music controls, and a dedicated emergency stop button.

Safety Disclaimers and Future Autonomy

A disclaimer featured at the bottom of the video clarifies: “Safety driver is present to supervise and only intervene as necessary. FSD (Supervised) does not make the vehicle autonomous.”

In January, Elon Musk stated that the Austin launch would operate without drivers, relying on the forthcoming “unsupervised” version of FSD.

He also mentioned plans to deploy the unsupervised FSD software to Tesla owners in California and other markets throughout the current year.

Uncertainties Regarding Full Autonomy

It remains uncertain whether Tesla will proceed with a fully autonomous service in Austin from the outset. Alternatively, the company may adopt a more cautious approach, retaining a safety driver in the vehicle for enhanced safety.

Regulatory Compliance in California

In California, companies operating autonomous vehicles are required to obtain various permits. Currently, Tesla possesses a permit solely for autonomous testing with a safety driver present.