Tesla Targets June 12 for Robotaxi Launch in Austin

Tesla is taking a major leap into the future of autonomous driving. According to a new Bloomberg report, the company is planning to launch its first robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, on June 12, 2025. This could be the beginning of a whole new chapter for the brand, and for how we think about transportation.

What Tesla's Robotaxi Launch Will Look Like

The initial rollout will include 10 to 20 modified Model Y vehicles, all running on Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) Supervised software. These vehicles will operate autonomously but with human supervision for now. The service will be invite-only and limited to specific zones in Austin, also known as geofenced areas.

Tesla hasn’t officially confirmed the June 12 date, but Bloomberg cites insiders who say the company is aiming for that timeline. It’s worth noting that, as with many Tesla timelines, the launch date could shift.

Tesla didn’t respond to Bloomberg’s request for comment. But on Thursday, CEO Elon Musk posted this on X (formerly Twitter), confirming the tests and hinting that things are moving faster than expected:

For the past several days, Tesla has been testing self-driving Model Y cars (no one in driver’s seat) on Austin public streets with no incidents.

A month ahead of schedule.

Next month, first self-delivery from factory to customer.

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 29, 2025

The Bigger Strategy Behind Robotaxis

This robotaxi service isn’t just a cool tech demo, it’s a sign of Tesla’s new direction. Instead of focusing on a lower-cost EV model, Elon Musk is betting big on autonomy and robotics, including the Optimus humanoid robot.

The company has already started testing the service in Austin with internal users. Over 1,500 trips and 15,000 miles have reportedly been logged with no incidents so far.

Investors Are Paying Attention

Tesla’s stock has jumped 26% in May, with investor confidence riding high. Firms like ARK Invest project that robotaxis could account for 90% of Tesla’s value by 2029, and analysts like Dan Ives have raised price targets dramatically, some as high as $500 per share.

Even with global sales dipping and rising pressure from competitors like BYD, Tesla’s pivot toward autonomy is reigniting excitement on Wall Street.

What's Next?

Tesla plans to launch its Cybercab - a purpose-built, fully autonomous vehicle - later this decade. But for now, the Model Y-based robotaxi service is the big test. If it performs well in Austin, more U.S. cities could be next.

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Source: Bloogmberg