Tesla is making plans to launch a ride-hailing service, according to recent news. The company has provided a glimpse of its planned ride-hailing interface, with an emphasis on self-driving and robotaxi businesses as electric vehicle demand softens.
While Tesla has not yet announced a specific launch date for the ride-hailing service, some details have been revealed. The service will be integrated into the Tesla app, which is already used by Tesla owners for vehicle functionality. Within the app, users will be able to summon a driverless vehicle, adjust the interior temperature, and track the car’s location on a 3D map.
During a call with investors, Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, compared the company’s robo-taxi business model to a combined version of Airbnb and Uber. Musk explained that Tesla intends to have a fleet of self-driving vehicles, with some owned and operated by Tesla, and others owned by end users. This model is expected to result in a large self-driving fleet, providing Tesla with valuable data and feedback.
Tesla has shifted its focus to the potential value of its self-driving software and robotaxi business in response to slowing electric vehicle demand. Despite challenges from safety groups and legal issues, Tesla continues to develop its Full-Self Driving software and work on ride-hailing functionality for the future. Musk announced plans to reveal a long-awaited robotaxi in August, showcasing the company’s commitment to advancing autonomous vehicle technology.