Core Points - Tesla's Robotaxi service officially launched in Austin, Texas, on June 22, showcasing the company's cautious approach to autonomous vehicle operations [1][3] - The initial fleet consists of 35 Model Y vehicles, with rides priced at $4.2 each (approximately 30 RMB), operating from 6 AM to midnight [3][9] - Safety measures include a human safety operator in the front seat and restrictions on passengers under 18 years old [9][11] Summary by Sections Service Launch - Tesla's Robotaxi service began operations in a limited area of South Austin, Texas, with a small group of invited users [3] - The service is currently accessible only through the Tesla Robotaxi App, which is available to a select group of media and influencers [3] Operational Details - Passengers must sit in the back seat and can control the ride experience through a rear screen, including adjusting climate settings and accessing entertainment [12][14] - A cloud-based monitoring room oversees the real-time operation of each vehicle, ensuring safety and performance [11][15] User Experience - Initial passenger feedback has been largely positive, with users reporting smooth and comfortable rides [16] - Some users noted minor operational errors, such as incorrect navigation decisions at intersections [23] Cost and Technology Comparison - Tesla's Robotaxi utilizes a cost-effective approach, with a single vehicle's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system costing approximately $2,360 (around 17,000 RMB), compared to over $100,000 (about 718,000 RMB) for competitors like Waymo [24][26] - The technology relies on a pure vision system with only nine cameras, contrasting with Waymo's multi-sensor setup [26][28] Regulatory Environment - Texas has recently enacted a law requiring state approval for all autonomous vehicle operations, which will take effect on September 1 [29] - Tesla's current permits in California are limited to employee transport and testing with safety drivers, not allowing for commercial autonomous operations [29] Future Outlook - Elon Musk expressed excitement over the launch, indicating plans to expand the Robotaxi fleet to 1,000 vehicles in the coming months and extend services to other cities [23][29] - The long-term success of Tesla's Robotaxi hinges on overcoming technological and regulatory challenges, with the journey toward widespread adoption just beginning [29]