Watch: Tesla Robotaxi Clips Go Viral After Launch Of „Super Smooth” Rides In Texas

Tesla launched its long-awaited self-driving Robotaxi service in Austin on Sunday, providing a select group of enthusiasts with early access to livestreamed rides. The debut advances the electric-vehicle maker’s ambition to dominate the autonomous ride-hailing market.

Tesla employees accompanied riders as a safety precaution during initial runs. Prominent Tesla enthusiast Farzad Mesbahi described the ride as “super smooth” and “drama free.” Another tester, Chuck Cook, expressed amazement at the vehicle’s ability to execute a three-point turn and back into a parking space with precision.

Second ride instant reaction. pic.twitter.com/qKqMZFp7Ui

— Farzad (@farzyness) June 22, 2025

First Robotaxi Rides https://t.co/K6mbCJpQEQ

— Chuck Cook (@chazman) June 22, 2025

The company’s artificial intelligence division, overseeing the project, emphasized the Robotaxi’s scalability, noting it requires no costly specialized equipment or extensive mapping. “It just works,” Tesla told Business Insider. Chief Executive Elon Musk set a flat $4.20 fare for early rides and outlined plans to expand to Los Angeles and San Francisco.

EXCLUSIVE: First Tesla Robotaxi Rides Ever! https://t.co/FrQ69b2QKO

— Ale𝕏andra Merz (@TeslaBoomerMama) June 22, 2025

Musk, who in April forecast the Robotaxi service would “move the financial needle in a significant way” by mid-2025, faces competition from Alphabet’s Waymo. The autonomous ride-hailing pioneer operates driverless services in Phoenix, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Austin, with Atlanta, Miami, and Washington, D.C., slated for 2026.

Getting dropped off in the RoboTaxi!

Incredible first ride @Tesla_AI pic.twitter.com/AMxUBOxDJw

— Zack (@BLKMDL3) June 22, 2025

The launch has drawn concern from some Texas lawmakers. Democrat state lawmakers last week urged Tesla to delay the debut until a new autonomous vehicle law takes effect in September, citing public safety and trust.

Getting in a Tesla Robotaxi. pic.twitter.com/ibByy7bMg3

— Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) June 22, 2025

Musk appeared pleasedwith the launch, lauding both Tesla’s software and chip design teams.