Tesla has returned to the spotlight with its ambitious autonomous robotaxi project. These driverless vehicles, designed to transform urban transportation, began their tests in Austin, Texas, causing a major stir. However, what seemed to be a technological breakthrough of monumental proportions is showing signs that reality still doesn't meet expectations.
After its launch, videos of the robotaxis making serious mistakes on public roads began to flood social media. Driving failures, erratic maneuvers, and unjustified sudden braking have cast doubt on the safety of these vehicles. Meanwhile, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been forced to intervene.
Chronicle of an eventful debut
The robotaxi project was one of Tesla's star announcements of the year, and it even caused the company's shares to rise by 8% after its major presentation. But the euphoria was short-lived. From the very first day, alarming behaviors were recorded; some vehicles ignored traffic signals or made illegal turns.
Everything was recorded and is generating strong controversy. The concerning part is that these failures aren't isolated; they are repeated in different videos and under various circumstances. Autonomous driving still isn't as safe as promised.
Tesla remains silent… and that raises more concerns
For now, Tesla hasn't made any official statements, nor issued press releases, nor replied to the videos. That, instead of calming the situation, only fuels even more uncertainty. NHTSA has confirmed that they are in contact with the company and don't rule out stricter measures if the failures are confirmed. The program could even be suspended temporarily; meanwhile, users and experts are divided, with some defending the project as a beta phase, while others see it as an experiment that's too risky.
Waymo takes the lead and exposes Tesla
The competition hasn't stood idly by; Waymo, Alphabet's company, already operates in several cities without the need for human drivers. So far, without failures as serious as Tesla's. Waymo's vehicles comply with regulations and have years of experience in real urban environments.
Tesla, on the other hand, seems to have hit the road too soon. The race to dominate autonomous transportation continues, but Tesla is starting to lose ground while others move forward steadily.
Rises, drops, and doubts in the markets
The market has reacted nervously; after the initial rise, Tesla's shares fell by almost 3% the next day, a clear reaction to the viral video scandal. Tesla's image of innovation is at stake, and Elon Musk, who usually navigates well amid the noise, this time has much more to lose. The robotaxi was supposed to be the definitive step toward the future, but for now, everything suggests it will be remembered as a failed trial.