U.S Lawmakers ask Tesla to Suspend Robotaxi Launch
Some U.S state lawmakers asked Tesla (TSLA) to postpone the launch of its highly anticipated robotaxi in Austin until September

Quick overview
- U.S. lawmakers in Austin have requested Tesla to delay its robotaxi launch until September to align with new autonomous driving laws.
- The lawmakers believe the postponement will enhance public safety and confidence in Tesla's operations.
- If Tesla proceeds with the launch this month, they must provide details on compliance with the upcoming state law.
- The new legislation will require autonomous vehicle companies to apply for permission to operate in Texas, a shift from current regulations.
Some U.S state lawmakers asked Tesla (TSLA) to postpone the launch of its highly anticipated robotaxi in Austin until September, when a new law regarding autonomous driving takes effect.
A group of lawmakers from the Austin area has proposed delaying the launch, which CEO Elon Musk mentioned could tentatively occur this Sunday. They believe this delay is in the best interest of public safety and will help build public confidence in Tesla’s business practices. They sent a letter regarding this matter on Wednesday.
If Tesla decides to move forward with a launch this month, lawmakers have requested that the company provide detailed information on how it will comply with the new state law at that time. As Tesla has shifted its focus from rapid growth in electric vehicle sales, Elon Musk has staked the company’s future on autonomous driving technology.
The significance of a letter from Democratic lawmakers in a state where Republicans control both legislative chambers and the governorship is uncertain.
Musk declared in January that Tesla would provide “autonomous ride-hailing for money in Austin in June.” Since then, analysts and investors have been closely monitoring the Austin rollout, with many attributing most of Tesla’s stock market value to expectations for robotaxis and humanoid robots that the company has been developing.
Under current Texas law, autonomous vehicle companies are allowed to operate anywhere in the state as long as their vehicles meet the requirements for insurance and registration. However, new legislation passed by the legislature last month, awaiting the governor’s signature, will require these companies to apply for permission to operate in Texas for the first time.
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