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Tesla Tests Driverless Robotaxis in Austin, Stock Soars

12/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Tesla, Inc. has begun testing driverless robotaxis in Austin, Texas, without safety monitors.
CEO Elon Musk announced this development on social media, highlighting the long-awaited transition to fully autonomous vehicles.
Tesla, Inc.'s stock rose 3.6% to $475.31, reflecting investor optimism.
Musk says the move positions Tesla to compete directly with Waymo, bringing it closer to a fully driverless ride-hailing service.

History

Historical Context

Google initiated its self-driving car project in 2012, building on decades of research in autonomous vehicle technology dating back to the 1920s. By 2017, Waymo, a Google subsidiary, began testing driverless cars, leading to its first commercial robotaxi service in Phoenix in 2018. Tesla's recent trials of driverless robotaxis in Austin reflect the ongoing evolution of urban transportation and regulatory challenges in this sector.

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Story summary

Tesla, Inc. has begun testing driverless robotaxis in Austin, Texas, without safety monitors.
CEO Elon Musk announced this development on social media, highlighting the long-awaited transition to fully autonomous vehicles.
Tesla, Inc.'s stock rose 3.6% to $475.31, reflecting investor optimism.
Musk says the move positions Tesla to compete directly with Waymo, bringing it closer to a fully driverless ride-hailing service.

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