### Tesla's Robotaxi Launch: A Bumpy Start Raises Safety Concerns Tesla has officially launched its long-anticipated robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, after a decade of development. However, the initial rollout has been marred by significant safety issues, leading to mixed reviews and regulatory scrutiny. Videos from early users have surfaced, showcasing erratic driving behaviors such as sudden braking, speeding, and incorrect lane changes, raising alarms about the safety of the autonomous vehicles [https://tech.yahoo.com/transportation/articles/tesla-robotaxi-raises-safety-flags-141917173.html][https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/teslas-robotaxi-peppered-with-driving-mistakes-in-texas-tests/article69738814.ece]. ### Breakdown of the Robotaxi Launch and Its Challenges 1. **Launch Overview** - Tesla's robotaxi service debuted in Austin, Texas, with the aim of revolutionizing transportation through autonomous technology [https://www.lowyat.net/2025/356847/tesla-launches-robotaxi-pilot-in-texas]. - The service is part of CEO Elon Musk's broader vision for self-driving technology, which is crucial for Tesla's financial future [https://www.channelnewsasia.com/business/teslas-robotaxi-peppered-driving-mistakes-texas-tests-5203631?cid=cna_flip_070214]. 2. **Safety Concerns** - Early reports indicate multiple driving errors, including: - Entering the wrong lane - Sudden braking without warning - Dropping passengers off in unsafe locations, such as busy intersections [https://www.india.com/business/big-trouble-for-elon-musk-wrong-side-video-of-robotaxis-under-scrutiny-after-austin-launch-tesla-stock-fell-by-2-percent-7909191][https://www.fastcompany.com/91359216/teslas-robotaxi-test-launch-austin-safety-concerns]. - The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated a review of the service following these alarming reports [https://www.theverge.com/news/692639/tesla-robotaxi-mistake-wrong-lane-phantom-braking]. 3. **Regulatory Response** - The NHTSA has reached out to Tesla for information regarding the incidents, indicating a potential regulatory pushback against the robotaxi service [https://fortune.com/2025/06/25/tesla-nhtsa-federal-regulators-traffic-safety-elon-musk][https://www.thestar.com.my/tech/tech-news/2025/06/25/us-following-up-on-possible-tesla-robotaxi-infractions]. - Experts are calling for a delay in the rollout until stricter regulations for autonomous vehicles are established [https://coincentral.com/teslas-first-robotaxi-rollout-faces-scrutiny-after-on-road-mishaps-in-austin]. ### Evidence of Driving Issues and Regulatory Scrutiny - **Documented Incidents**: - Over 11 documented errors were reported within the first three days of operation, including erratic lane changes and abrupt stops [https://interestingengineering.com/transportation/austins-streets-see-chaos-as-tesla-robotaxi-brakes-swerves-and-drops-riders-mid-road]. - Videos shared by passengers highlight these issues, prompting widespread concern and media coverage [https://sg.news.yahoo.com/tesla-robotaxi-rollout-started-users-202133996.html]. - **Regulatory Actions**: - The NHTSA's investigation reflects the seriousness of the situation, as federal regulators are closely monitoring Tesla's compliance with safety standards [https://www.mensjournal.com/news/tesla-robotaxis-federal-investigation-troubling-videos-elon-musk]. ### Conclusion: A Cautious Path Forward for Tesla's Robotaxi Service **In summary**, Tesla's robotaxi launch in Austin has encountered significant challenges, primarily related to safety and regulatory compliance. The following points encapsulate the current situation: 1. **Initial Launch**: The robotaxi service was launched with high expectations but has faced immediate backlash due to safety concerns. 2. **Driving Errors**: Numerous incidents of erratic driving behavior have been documented, raising alarms among users and regulators alike. 3. **Regulatory Scrutiny**: The NHTSA is actively investigating the service, which could lead to stricter regulations and a potential halt in operations until safety can be assured. As Tesla navigates these challenges, the future of its robotaxi service remains uncertain, with the company needing to address these safety issues to regain public trust and regulatory approval [https://www.business-standard.com/world-news/musk-robotaxis-under-probe-after-video-shows-wrong-lane-driving-in-texas-125062500064_1.html][https://www.globeandmail.com/business/article-teslas-robotaxi-test-sees-multiple-traffic-issues-problematic-driving].