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Tesla Starts Testing Robotaxis Without Safety Operators: TDS

By sparta 15/12/2025

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Good morning and welcome to The Downshift, or TDS for short.

Concise and to the point, TDS collects the newest news in the automotive industry globally and presents it all in one place. Each story is encapsulated in a brief sentence with a link for those looking for further details.

The first cup of coffee is gone and I’m onto the second so let’s dive in.

🚘 What I’m driving: I spent a freezing weekend with the 2026 Lucid Air without any problems and thoroughly enjoyed opening the app, starting the car while it was charging, warming the interior, activating my seat heater and heated steering wheel while the garage door was shut, and then finally sliding into a cozy car to head outside into the refreshing Minnesota winter air. The future is going to be wonderful.

🚕 A Tesla Robotaxi has been seen driving down a street in Austin, Texas, with no one inside; Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk confirmed on X.com that “testing is in progress with no occupants in the vehicle,” despite multiple accidents involving Tesla Robotaxis since their launch in July with human safety monitors present and an emergency shutdown option.

✍️ Over a week later, Jaguar Land Rover clarified that it did not terminate Gerry McGovern, the head of design at the automaker responsible for the contentious Jaguar EV concept’s design.

🔌 The eight manufacturers supporting the Ionna high-speed EV charging network stated that although consumer interest in EVs is waning, the demand for high-quality reliable chargers persists, and the company’s mission to establish a nationwide network will proceed.

❄️ Jeep marked 85 years of uninterrupted Wrangler production with the launch of the Whitecap special edition, featuring snowy accents on vibrant body colors for Rubicon X, Rubicon, and Sahara models.

⛽️ Reports indicate that Porsche is reverse engineering the electric 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman EVs to accommodate gasoline engines, a total turnaround from the company’s initial plans for next-gen sports cars.

🚖 Volkswagen is currently testing its competitor to Tesla’s Robotaxi on the streets of Wolfsburg.

🔋 The electric Volkswagen ID. Polo has been unveiled as a 260-mile sub-$30,000 EV for the general public, although it is unlikely to be introduced in the U.S. market.

📱 Volvo’s software update intended for older models from 2020 and newer, which was meant to bring the company’s latest Google-based infotainment system to previous versions this year, has been postponed to early next year.

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**Tesla Begins Testing Robotaxis Without Safety Drivers: TDS**

In a major breakthrough in autonomous vehicle technology, Tesla has started testing its robotaxi fleet without safety drivers on board. This development signifies a key milestone in the company’s progress toward fully autonomous transit solutions. The initiative, known as Tesla Driverless Service (TDS), seeks to improve the efficiency and safety of transportation in urban areas.

**Overview of Tesla’s Robotaxi Initiative**

Tesla’s robotaxi endeavor is part of its larger vision to create a sustainable and efficient transportation network. The company has consistently been a leader in electric vehicle (EV) technology and has heavily invested in advancing self-driving capabilities. The launch of robotaxis is anticipated to transform urban transportation by offering a cost-effective and environmentally sound alternative to conventional taxis and ride-sharing options.

**Key Features of TDS**

1. **Autonomous Driving Technology**: Tesla’s robotaxis are armed with the latest version of its Full Self-Driving (FSD) software, employing a mix of cameras, sensors, and artificial intelligence to navigate intricate urban settings without human assistance.

2. **Safety Protocols**: While the lack of safety drivers may raise concerns, Tesla has established strict testing procedures. The vehicles are subjected to both extensive simulations and real-world tests to ensure they can safely navigate a range of driving situations.

3. **Fleet Management**: The robotaxi fleet will utilize Tesla’s sophisticated software systems for real-time monitoring, route optimization, and efficient dispatching to accommodate passenger needs.

4. **Cost Efficiency**: By removing the necessity for human drivers, Tesla aims to significantly cut down operational expenses. This reduction is expected to reflect in lower fares for riders, making robotaxis an appealing substitute for traditional ride-hailing services.

**Regulatory and Public Acceptance Challenges**

The introduction of driverless robotaxis is filled with challenges. Gaining regulatory approval stands as a significant hurdle, as governmental bodies must verify that these vehicles comply with safety standards before they can take to public roads. Moreover, the acceptance of autonomous vehicles by the public remains a concern, with many expressing doubts regarding the safety and dependability of self-driving technologies.

**Future Prospects**

Tesla’s decision to test robotaxis without safety drivers is a daring stride toward a future where autonomous vehicles are the norm. If successful, this initiative could lead to widespread acceptance of robotaxis, reshaping urban mobility and helping to reduce traffic congestion and emissions.

As Tesla continues to hone its technology and tackle regulatory challenges, observers will closely monitor the evolution of TDS and its effects on the transportation landscape. The success of this program could encourage other companies to adopt similar strategies, hastening the shift toward fully autonomous transportation alternatives.